Josh Hawkes, who is one of the highest-rated players in non-league football, has become available. The Hartlepool United midfielder has officially rejected a new contract, meaning he will leave United at the end of June.
A product of Hartlepool United’s academy, 21-year-old Hawkes has recently been linked to several Football League clubs. These include Barnsley and Hull City of the Championship, plus League One side Sunderland.
Josh Hawkes Rejects New Contract at Hartlepool United
Hawkes Eyed Previously
In April 2018, the Sunderland Echo reported that Hartlepool had rejected Sunderland’s request to watch Hawkes play in a behind-closed-doors game. Newcastle United were also mentioned as another club who, at the time, were monitoring the then 19-year-old.
The interest came within weeks of him making his full debut for Hartlepool. He also scored a goal, as United defeated Bromley 2-1 on March 27th 2018.
After this game, Matthew Bates, who was then the Hartlepool United caretaker-manager, was full of praise for Hawkes.
“Josh was magnificent. He’s learning and for his age you won’t see a better player in the area,” said Bates.
“His decision making was that of a senior player. He will stay grounded and have to react to the knocks.
“It’s up to him to go far and do it. He doesn’t doubt himself.”
Back in March 2018, Hartlepool were fighting relegation from the National League. Although they would eventually finish the 2017/18 season in a lower mid-table position.
Hawkes’ Departure Is a Loss to Hartlepool
Hartlepool United are seeking to build a side capable of regaining their English Football League (EFL) status. Hawkes was seen as a significant player for this, so his departure is a huge disappointment. On the positive, he is under 24-years of age, so United will receive compensation.
United manager Dave Challinor, speaking to the Hartlepool Mail, confirmed the news of Hawkes’ imminent departure.
Challinor said: “Hawkesy (Josh Hawkes) has been told there are other avenues for him to explore. If he moves elsewhere then there will be compensation involved and we will get a fee.”
Compensation Could Vary
Just how much compensation Hartlepool will receive, is unknown at present. However, if Hawkes moves away from England, they will probably receive a much lower amount.
When a transfer is between two English sides, the Professional Football Compensation Committee (PFCC) decides the level of compensation.
The PFCC take into account factors such as player’s playing record, interest from other clubs, the contracts on offer, previous fee, age and time with the academy.
However, when a player leaves England – if only to Scotland – then FIFA decide the level of compensation. They use a different formula to calculate compensation – one which places less emphasis on certain factors – thereby usually leading to a far lower amount.
A Future Talent
Hawkes has played in the EFL before, as he was a member of Hartlepool’s squad who suffered relegation to the National League in 2017. He was one of the few positives of Hartlepool’s dismal League Two campaign of 2016/17.
Impressed by Hawkes’ talent, the then United manager Dave Jones gave him his debut in February 2017. He came on as a late substitute during Hartlepool’s superb 4-0 victory over Crewe Alexandra. Hawkes’ debut came within weeks of him turning 18.
Including his debut, he has featured over 60 times for United. Arguably, the 2018/19 season was Hawkes’ breakthrough, as he became a regular for United. In November last year, he scored a magnificent goal during a FA Cup tie against EFL side Exeter City. This proved the match-winner as Hartlepool eliminated Exeter from the second round, via a 1-0 victory. United also considered him their free-kick and penalty specialist.
Josh Hawkes might not yet be a familiar player outside his native North East. This appears set to change, as he is definitely a player to watch out for.
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