Harvey Cartwright could leave Hull City on loan again in January as he looks to regain fitness and first-team minutes after injury curtailed his spell with Hartlepool United.
The 23-year-old returned to the MKM Stadium after suffering a setback during his National League stint, but remains keen to continue his development away from the Championship club.
Cartwright’s Next Move
Cartwright joined Hartlepool in August to gain regular game time, but injury brought an early end to what had been a promising loan. HullLive report that the Tigers are open to arranging another temporary exit for the young stopper once he returns to full fitness.
Hartlepool boss Simon Grayson praised the goalkeeper’s attitude during his short spell in the North East, telling the Hartlepool Mail:
“He’s a real good kid off the pitch, works extremely hard, and most importantly makes saves when he needs to. I think he’d be the first to admit that the lads in front of him have helped him out but he’s certainly played his part.
“The hard bit now will be dampening down the hype so nobody tries to pinch him off us in January.”
Cartwright, an England youth international, has been with Hull since his academy days and made his senior debut in a Championship match against Queens Park Rangers in 2022. Since then, he has appeared twice more for the first team and spent time on loan at Barton Town, Gainsborough Trinity, Peterborough United, Wycombe Wanderers and Grimsby Town.
Future Uncertain
Cartwright’s contract at the MKM Stadium expires in June 2026, leaving Hull with decisions to make about his long-term role. With current first-choice keeper Ivor Pandur established as Player of the Season last term and Dillon Phillips arriving from Rotherham United, opportunities are limited.
The club’s goalkeeper department also includes Timothée Lo-Tutala, who joined Doncaster Rovers on loan in the summer, meaning Cartwright may need to look elsewhere for regular minutes once fit again.
Hull’s goalkeeping depth makes another loan spell appear likely, with Cartwright eager to prove himself at senior level following his recovery. For both player and club, another move in January could offer the best route to continued progress.
Writer’s View
Cartwright’s situation typifies the challenge faced by young goalkeepers breaking through at ambitious Championship sides. With Pandur and Phillips ahead in the pecking order, the 23-year-old needs consistent football to keep his career moving forward.
A successful return to the National League or a move higher up the EFL ladder could be crucial in determining whether he still has a long-term future at Hull City.
