Our Hartlepool United writer Robbie Stelling has graded and assessed all 12 of Hartlepool United's summer signings. What do you make of his marks and comments?
5. Cameron John: B
Prior to the York loanee's needless red card on the stroke of half time during last month's heavy defeat against Woking, the 26-year-old was probably leading the running for the club's player of the season award. Indeed, John has impressed with his reliability and versatility, producing a string of assured performances at both centre-half and left-back, scoring a fine goal following a lung-busting forward run in November's excellent win over Eastleigh. While there's no doubt the defender let his side down after the red mist descended and he needlessly lashed out at Woking's Josh Osude last month, John has been generally impressive and Pools fans would surely be interested in the idea of making his loan move permanent in the summer. Photo: Frank Reid
6. Besart Topallaj: C-
Started the season so well and was outstanding on the opening day of the campaign against Yeovil, while he scored his one and only Pools goal during September's much-needed win over rivals Gateshead. Much like fellow summer recruit Jay Benn, ran out of steam fairly quickly and his defensive vulnerabilities soon started to be exposed. Was probably a little bit unfortunate that Nicky Featherstone never seemed to fancy him, albeit a spell sidelined through illness didn't help, and a move back down south to sign permanently for fellow National League side Sutton after his partner fell pregnant felt like the right thing for all parties. Photo: Frank Reid
7. Matty Daly: C
Other than an 89th minute winner against rivals Gateshead last month, the 24-year-old has been pretty underwhelming since sealing a permanent return to Victoria Park over the summer. Clearly a talented footballer, Pools have at times found it difficult to find a place for him in their side and he's often been shunted out to the left flank, even operating at wing-back on a handful of occasions. Far too many games have passed him by although he looked very bright against rivals York last time out. Photo: Frank Reid
8. Brad Walker: E
The club's first summer signing - and not one of the most well-received - Walker returned to Victoria Park having made more than 100 appearances for Pools at the beginning of his career. The 29-year-old arrived having missed the entire second half of last season through injury and fitness issues have continued to plague him this term, making just four starts and eight substitute appearances. When he has been available, Walker has moved the ball well enough - Simon Grayson appeared to be a fan, hailing him as a "proper footballer" - but his lack of mobility and dynamism have severely limited his effectiveness. Photo: Adam Cook/The Corner Photography