FORMER York City defender David Ferguson has joined National League outfit Hartlepool United.

York announced earlier this week that Ferguson had rejected an improved deal to remain at the club with the 26-year-old instead opting for a move up the football pyramid.

Ferguson was a stand-out player for City last season, registering an incredible 15 assists from the left-wing-back position as part of Steve Watson's move to a predominantly 5-3-2 formation during the summer.

He was an ever present for City too last term, making 40 appearances in all competitions.

The move sees Sunderland-born Ferguson return to the North East having began his career at the Darlington academy before joining Sunderland.

Stints at Boston United, Blackpool, Shildon and a return to Darlington followed before he signed for York in October 2017.

Hartlepool manager Dave Challinor said of signing Ferguson: “David has all the qualities for an all round full back.

"He can attack, defend, score and assist and he fits perfectly into our system.

"The number of assists he got at York last year was very impressive and we are looking forward to him joining the team”.

Hartlepool were ninth in the National League table when the season was suspended amid the coronavirus pandemic and sat three points adrift from a place in the play-offs.

Elsewhere, ex-York forward Jake Wright could make his loan deal at Boston United permanent following his departure from City.

"I'm a big fan of Jake but he hasn't played enough games," manager Craig Elliott told the Boston Standard.

"It was unfortunate (he went off in the play-off final against Altrincham), but he's definitely someone we're interested in."