The as-yet un-named club in Borneo will receive technical help from Pools and it is understood captain Ritchie Humphreys is in Sarawak doing some coaching.

Malaysian Social Development and Urbanisation Minister Datuk Seri William Mawan Ikom was quoted as saying: "The steering committee has been formed comprising myself, officials from FAS and officials from English Division One club Hartlepool."

Meanwhile, Humphreys has been told he has the class and the fitness to keep going on and on at Pools, by the man who brought him to Victoria Park – Chris Turner.

The current director of sport was building a promotion team when he signed Humphreys on a free transfer from Cambridge United in the summer of 2001.

Humphreys walked away with FOUR trophies at the annual Player of the Year awards night.

The 30-year-old did not have enough hands to carry his haul of Player of the Year, Away Player of the Year, Player of the 2000s and, the pinnacle of his achievements, the Player of the Century.

All four were voted by the club's supporters.

"The fans have watched Ritchie for seven or eight years now and they're the ones who have voted for him," said Turner.

"They've obviously liked what they've seen and obviously feel they have had value for money.

"Ritchie has done really, really well.

"I thought he was a good signing at the time, he was a top player with a good pedigree."

Turner added: "He's one of the fittest players," said Turner. "The squad are tested regularly – three times per season – and Ritchie is in the top half a dozen every time.

"His fitness is still there and if he can sustain that level and look after his body then there's no reason why he can't go on.

"Ritchie is the ultimate professional – on and off the pitch.

"I can honestly say in the time since he joined he has not been one ounce of trouble.

"Not only is he a very good footballer, he is a fantastic person and has been a great ambassador for the club."