Josh Rowbotham: Hartlepool United release midfielder

Rowbotham leaves Victoria Park 11 years after he joined the club as a nine-year old.

Hartlepool United have allowed midfielder Josh Rowbotham to leave the club by mutual consent.

Rowbotham, 20, made his first-team debut in April 2011 against Tranmere and signed a professional deal the following summer.

However, he made just one further first-team appearance and now ends an 11-year association with Pools.

"It has been going through my head for a few months and and I feel relieved now," Rowbotham told the club website.

"I can't fault the club, they have been great with me, from giving me my opportunity to training and everything, I just couldn't fault them at all."