Hartlepool chief so grateful to '˜classy' Derby County

The Pools chief executive said the club were knocked out by the Championship high-fliers show of generosity.

Pools were contacted by County officials on Monday that they would NOT be wanting their 45 percent share of ticket sales from Saturday’s third-round tie.

Their decision came before they knew they received a lucrative fifth-round home draw against Manchester United.

“It’s a wonderful gesture from Derby but not completely surprising because I knew what a great club they were already,” Green told www.hartlepoolunited.co.uk

“In a day when clubs at the higher level of the game are often accused of greed it’s refreshing to see Derby showing that they are certainly not motivated by money.

“There are good people running the club there and I am pretty certain they’re going to go on and win promotion to the Premier League this season.

“I would like to thank them sincerely for their generosity and wish them all the very best for the rest of the season.”

Pools chairman Gary Coxall also expressed his thanks to Derby via Twitter.

“What an outstanding gesture from @dcfcofficial. A club with real, genuine class.”