Poolies have the power to drive Hartlepool United back where they belong - Scott Loach

And the goalkeeper believes the club’s fans are what sets them apart from every other club in the fifth tier.

Having dropped out of the Football League for the first time in the club’s history, many expected Pools to be challenging for promotion back to League Two at the first attempt.

But, as we all know, things did not go to plan.

A relegation scrap ensued as the club fell apart at the seams, on and off the park, held together in no small part by the fans.

While this might be overlooked by some, especially with a new owner at the helm, Poolies’ role in keeping the club afloat is not lost on Loach.

The 29-year-old thinks as well as having played an integral role in the club’s past, the fans have got a massive part to play in the club’s immediate future.

“It is ready to take off,” he said of Hartlepool, ahead of next season.

“If we can start well and give the fans something to cheer about there’s no reason that won’t give us the extra edge.

“We have got the fanbase. Others haven’t always got that. They can be the difference.

“But we have to be consistent and give them something to shout about.”

Loach recalls the point he believes the fans got back on side with the players, after a torturous campaign thus far.

“Aldershot away was the turning point with the fans,” he said of the 2-1 away day defeat.

“They showed the believed in us and we gave them a performance despite the result.

“We need to keep doing that, week-in, week-out.”

A date for Pools’ return to training is yet to be revealed by manager Matthew Bates, with the 31-year-old former caretaker and defender keen to keep his cards close to his chest.

Loach and the players know the date, though, and it can’t come around quick enough for the ex-Watford, Ipswich Town and Notts County man.

“I am active person and will keep myself ticking over,” said the former England call-up of the summer ahead.

“I love my football so I can’t wait for the World Cup and Champions League final.

“Then after that it’s back to the real stuff and I can’t wait to get back and work harder than last season to improve.”