Nicky Featherstone

[South East Rover]

Bradford, Northampton and Doncaster are planning January bids for Hartlepool midfielder Nicky Featherstone.

The 28-year-old has been one of the standout performers in a disappointing season for Pools and is understood to have attracted the attention of the League One clubs and League Two leaders.

Featherstone, who began his career at Hull, has 18 months left on his contract and would therefore command a fee.

Any potential exit would be dependant on the appointment of Pools' new manager following Craig Hignett's departure last week.

Press Association Sport understands former Southampton and Sheffield Wednesday manager Dave Jones has held preliminary talks, though Sam Collins is also thought to be in contention.