HARTLEPOOL United have confirmed Lennie Lawrence will continue as the club's interim manager until the end of the season.

Lawrence took charge of the National League club following Darren Sarll's departure last month.

But the 76-year-old, who has managed more than 1,000 matches in his career, will now remain in the role until the summer. 

Lawrence told the club's website: “It’s been a very thorough and professional process that the board has conducted, and it’s a decision we’re very excited about.

"A lot went into it and one of the priorities was a long-term plan, and the idea is to offer my experience where possible to develop the rest of the team.

"We now have a lot of depth within our coaching staff and each member holds different qualities which we’ll be able to lean on during the course of the season.”

Hartlepool are currently 15th in the table, level on points with Southend United who are immediately above them in the standings.