Everything Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor has said about three registration deadline day signings Brad James, Zaine Francis-Angol and Harvey Saunders

It was all action at Pools just before Thursday’s 5pm deadline as they secured loan deals for Middlesbrough goalkeeper Brad James and Fleetwood Town forward Harvey Saunders as well as a short-term permanent deal for left-back Zaine Francis-Angol following his release from Boreham Wood.

All three players will remain at the club until the end of the 2020-21 season as Dave Challinor looks to guide his team back to the Football League in his first full season in charge.

Pools currently sit top of the National League table by a single point but aren’t in action this weekend while Sutton United (2nd) and Torquay United (3rd) are.

James will wear the number 13 shirt while Francis-Angol and Saunders will have numbers 26 and 28 respectively.

Following the signings, Challinor spoke about James: “Brad has had experience at this level with Gateshead and Aldershot and with him being local is a great fit for us.

"With Ben [Killip] being ruled out it was important we got an extra one in to cover all eventualities so we’re delighted to get Brad in and thanks goes to Middlesbrough for helping us get the deal done.”

On Francis-Angol, Challinor told the club website: “Zaine is someone I know well and have worked with before. He’s been part of two playoff campaigns with me previously and has experienced high-pressure games.

"He gives us options down that left-hand side and his pace, power and quality will really add to the squad.”

Following Saunders’ arrival, he added: “I am delighted Harvey is with us until the end of the season. We have tracked him for a while but just hadn’t been able to get it done due to Fleetwood’s league situation.

"He is a local lad, knows the area. It is another goal threat for us and I know he is excited to get started.

“I’m sure they’ll fit in brilliantly and impact the group over the remainder of the season.”

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