Jones started 36 League One games for Pools, scoring three times

Hartlepool director of sport Chris Turner says he is disappointed Ritchie Jones has asked to leave the club.

The 22-year-old midfielder submitted a written transfer request and now looks set to leave the League One side.

And Turner told BBC Tees: "He came to see me last week and I'm a bit disappointed because it's only after two pre-season games.

"He's not a free transfer, he's not been placed on the transfer list, he has asked for a move."

Jones joined Pools in 2008 from Manchester United and played 42 times last season, scoring three goals.

But despite the club exercising the one-year option on his contract in the summer, he now sees his future away from Victoria Park.

"It's something he feels he wants to do," Turner added.

"As a football club we will analyse it over the next couple of weeks - I've spoken with the chairman and we'll digest everything.

"But in the meantime everything will go along with Ritchie as it would normally."

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