Ryan Donaldson return is a shot in the arm for threadbare Pools - Blair Adams

After a promising start to life at Pools, Donaldson damaged his ankle in October.

Two operations and six months later Donaldson made his Victoria Park return in the 1-0 home loss to bottom of the pile Guiseley.

The return of Donaldson is a massive boost for Pools, according to left-back Adams, himself a revelation in recent weeks.

And that’s not just because of the quality, and experience he brings.

“It was great to get him back because we’re really down to the bare bones,” said Adams of the midfielder’s comeback.

“He’s been really unlucky, needing a second operation, but he’s worked really hard with the staff at the club to get back.

“He’s a big player for us, he’s been there and done it as a lower league player and it was good to have him back and get 15 to 20 minutes.”

Pools take on Solihull Moors this weekend looking to bounce back from the disappointment of the Guiseley reverse.

Adams is again expected to start at left-back.

Reflecting back on Monday afternoon, the former Sunderland kid said: “It was a really frustrating end.

“We had three points going into the game and were looking to make it six.

“We’ve only come away with three which is massive disappointing.

“It was a game that was quite open second half but I thought we were the better team but we’ve not come away with the win.

“We’re obviously very disappointing but the message is to re-focus and go again on Saturday.”