Connor Simpson announces Preston arrival with hat-trick in youth team win over Blackpool

ALSO READ: Teenage striker Connor Simpson can push for the Preston first team says Alex NeilThe 17-year-old, a £50,000 January arrival at Hartlepool, helped Nick Harrison’s side to a 5-2 win at the University of Central Lancashire Sports Arena.

Adam O’Reilly and Mike Howard were also on target.

Boss Alex Neil said earlier the week he would have no hesitation in throwing in Simpson if he showed he was ready to step up after just a handful of games in the National League.

On this form that might come sooner rather than later, the 6’5” teenager opening the scoring just seven minutes in before scoring two goals in quick succession just after the hour mark to take the game beyond Blackpool.