First impressions count: Every new Hartlepool United signing ranked after opening two months of League Two season
By Dominic Scurr
Published 28th Sep 2021, 12:30 BST
Updated 28th Sep 2021, 13:13 BST
We’ve now seen all 14 of Hartlepool United’s 2021-22 signings in action – but who has impressed so far?
Dave Challinor bolstered his squad during the summer transfer window and has continued to bring in further players using the free agent market.
It was the Pools boss’ first time having to navigate a transfer window as a manager so the business was never going to be perfect but every player has now had at least a small chance to make an impression.
Here are all 14 of Pools’ summer signings rated by the impact they’ve made so far…
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Here are all 14 of Pools’ summer signings rated by the impact they’ve made so far…
9. Mike Fondop
A necessary signing as Pools were in desperate need of more presence up front as they searched for goals in Tyler Burey's absence. Fondop hasn't got off the mark so far but he's completed 90-minutes twice already and has made his presence felt, for better or worse, in both matches. Photo: HUFC
Ticked a lot of boxes with Pools looking for midfield cover during the summer. Was always going to be difficult to get into the side ahead of Nicky Featherstone, Gavan Holohan and Mark Shelton but has still been handed a few opportunities and even captained the side in the Papa John's Trophy match at Carlisle. But still yet to really make an impact. Photo: Bernadette Malcolmson
A last-minute deadline day loan signing from Stoke City initially looked to be desperate. But if first impressions on the field are anything to go by, Pools could have some solid cover for David Ferguson. Jones impressed on his debut with some fine tackles and confidence in possession over the weekend and is likely to be handed opportunities in the coming weeks. Photo: HUFC
Things just haven't got going so far Mark Cullen at Pools. Injury hampered his pre-season and have seemingly had a knock on affect on the opening months of the competition season too. Hasn't featured in the league since coming off the bench in the opening day win over Crawley Town. Will get a chance in the Papa John's Trophy next week which he ideally needs to take. Photo: HUFC