Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor looking forward to being back in the dugout against Bromley after serving FA touchline ban

The Pools boss has now served his three-match touchline ban after being charged with improper conduct by the FA over the summer.

But with Challinor watching from the stands, Hartlepool have won each of their opening three matches to the new season – leaving them top of the National League table.

And he's hoping his return to the dugout against Bromley at Victoria Park tonight (7.45pm kick-off), will not jinx the side’s impressive form.

The 45-year-old told The Mail: “I’m looking forward to being back in the dugout, although, given the start we’ve made they might be telling me to stay away!”

"I hate it, I’ve hated being in the stands, I want to be down there in the dugout.

"It’s a bit different in our dugout because we can only fit three or four people in anyway. But just to have the opportunity to be back pitchside is one I’m really looking forward to because you can affect the game more.

"The past three games I’ve been sat in the stands on the phone to Joe [Parkinson] and I can’t shout.

"I like being part of the game and an active coach on the touchline by getting people into positions and through games where they can have an impact.

"Having not been able to do that, I’ve learnt my lesson and I certainly don’t intend to be spending any more time in the stands.”

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