Michael Duckworth set for Dagenham & Redbridge v Hartlepool United return

Brad Halliday in action for Hartlepool United against Cambridge United. Picture by FRANK REID

Michael Duckworth looks set for an instant return to the Hartlepool United side after loan signingBrad Halliday returned to Middlesbrough.

Duckworth has shaken off a hamstring problem and, should he come through a full week of training with no ill effects, he will line up at Dagenham & Redbridge on Saturday.

Halliday was signed after Duckworth was injured in the Johnstone’s Paints Trophy against Sheffield United and Carl Magnay was sent off at Wycombe four days later, leaving Pools without a right-back.

Halliday made an immediate on his debut at Exeter and was then man of the match seven days later against Cambridge.

He has played the subsequent three games but with his loan spell now ended, he has returned to Boro, where he had been skipper of the Under 21 side. Moore said: “We would like to thank Middlesbrough for allowing Brad to come to us.

“He’s a young footballer with a lot of ability and we were delighted to be able to call upon him during the past month so we wish him well for the future.”

Halliday, who made six appearances during his loan spell, took to Twitter to thank the League Two club.

The 20-year-old said: “Thanks @Official_HUFC for my time spent at the club, gained a lot of experience and enjoyed every minute. Good luck for the rest of the season.”