National League side Hartlepool United sign former Gillingham defender Max Clark on a deal until January

Former Gillingham defender Max Clark has joined a team at the lower end of the National League.

Struggling Hartlepool United have handed the 30-year-old free agent a contract until January.

Clark was released by the Gills at the end of last season after spending three years with the club, making more than 100 league appearances.

He was a regular for the Gills last season, making 46 appearances, but left to make way for new additions in the summer.

New club Hartlepool are third from bottom in the National League.

Clark said: “I’m thrilled to join the club; it’s been a busy couple of days, but I’m pleased to get started with the lads, and I’m looking forward to showing the supporters what I can offer.”

Head coach Pete Wild added: “He’s an experienced and versatile defender who arrives with an eagerness to prove a point and help the club progress up the league table.”

Clark could make his debut on Saturday away at Forest Green Rovers.