Former Sunderland winger Luke Molyneux's great response following first Hartlepool United start of the season

The 21-year-old was sidelined for the opening half of the campaign with a serious foot injury picked up in a pre-season friendly at York City.

Following a few brief appearances off the bench, Molyneux was finally handed his first start of the season by Dave Challinor and found the net just five minutes in.

Despite starting and scoring in his first competitive game since last April, the Pools winger had just one thing on his mind afterwards.

“I just want to get some food – I’m hungry!” He admitted following the game.

“It was pretty much [perfect], the goal was just a bonus for me obviously with it being my first game back in a long time and to win was the main thing for me but it’s nice to get a goal and an assist as well.

“There was a lot of chances, while I was on the pitch I think I only touched the ball once [in the second half] before I came off because the wind was taking the ball to the other side.

“But there were a lot of chances and it should have been five or six nil definitely. The gaffer said afterwards that hopefully we’re saving them for another day, hopefully we are!”

On his injury, Molyneux added: “It was definitely frustrating to be out for so long and not really be involved with the lads.

“It’s pretty tough but I worked hard to get back and I did everything I could to get back.

“I feel a lot fitter and stronger than I did probably even in pre-season so it’s helped me mentally as well. It’s been tough but it’s worth it.

“I’m obviously buzzing to be back involved and ready to go again next week.

“Physically, I’m not feeling too bad to be fair. I was getting a bit of pins and needles in the first half but I’m not feeling bad, I’m just buzzing to be back out there.”