Former Hartlepool United manager Ronnie Moore returns to the club as chief scout

The 71-year-old was in charge of Pools between 2014 and 2016 and was linked with a return earlier this season following the departure of John Askey.

During his time as manager, Moore masterminded a memorable 'Great Escape', taking over in December 2014 with the club bottom of League Two and six points from safety before securing survival in the penultimate game of the season, a 2-1 win over Exeter City.

Moore, who scored over 150 goals in his playing days and led Rotherham to successive promotions as a manager, returns to the North East in a scouting role ahead of what looks like being a busy summer.

Current boss Kevin Phillips has already admitted he is planning a "major overhaul" of his squad, with a number of loan players set to return to their parent clubs and a number of others unlikely to be offered new deals when their contracts expire.

With decades of experience and a healthy list of contacts between them, Phillips and Moore will be looking to rebuild the squad ahead of a potential promotion push next season.

Upon his return, Moore told the club website: “It's fantastic to be back at Hartlepool and I'm really looking forward to it.

“I've never forgotten my time at Pools - I had a few promotions in my career, but that survival feeling was one of the best emotions I've ever felt.

“The supporters were extraordinary and I’m passionate about this club. I want to see it back where it belongs.

“Often as a manager I would scout players myself, but I’m really looking forward to being able to solely focus on recruitment, giving it my full time and attention.

"We've got a list of targets to look at for the summer and it's important to get some winning players into the squad.

"It's not just about how good they are on the pitch but what they're like in the dressing room - that's why doing the correct due diligence is vital.”