JUST NOW: Hartlepool United have completed another signing of experienced defender

Hartlepool United have signed veteran defender Kieron Freeman on a short-term contract. The 32-year-old, who featured in nine National League matches for Oldham last season, strengthens manager Darren Sarll’s defensive options ahead of this weekend’s game against Southend.

Freeman has experience across all five tiers of English football and has earned a cap for Wales under Ryan Giggs. Primarily a right-back, Freeman holds the distinction of being the youngest player to represent all three professional Nottinghamshire clubs—Nottingham Forest, Notts County, and Mansfield—and has accumulated nearly 300 career appearances.

Kieron Freeman’s most successful stint was with Sheffield United, where he spent five years and played a key role in their 2017 League One title win, earning a spot in the PFA Team of the Season. He was also part of the Sheffield United squad that achieved promotion to the Premier League, making two top-flight appearances, including a defeat to Newcastle and a memorable victory over Spurs.

Since leaving Bramall Lane in January 2021, Freeman has had two spells with Portsmouth and has also played for Swindon, Swansea, and most recently, Oldham.

Freeman will don the number 32 shirt at the Prestige Group Stadium, with the club announcing a new stadium sponsorship deal earlier today. He is expected to be available for tomorrow’s match against Southend, pending FA approval.

“I’m really excited to get started; it’s great to have everything sorted, and I’ve enjoyed meeting the lads,” Freeman said. “I want to do my best and use my experience to help the squad. Hartlepool has always been a good club to play against, and seeing the training facilities today was fantastic. I can’t wait to get going. It’s all about the team, not just me. I want to play football and win games, and I need the team to do that.”

Manager Darren Sarll emphasized that Freeman’s extensive experience was a key factor in bringing him into the squad.

“Kieron’s experience was decisive in this decision. We needed a full-back, and the fact that Kieron comes in with a solid pre-season behind him was crucial,” Sarll said. “His career is filled with good clubs, and his qualities allow us to fast-track his preparation and get him involved immediately. August will be our first real test of the group’s resilience, and Kieron helps us manage the squad effectively week-to-week. I’m very pleased to have him with us.”

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