Former Sunderland striker Jordan Cook suffers setback in his return to fitness for Hartlepool United

Cook has been out of action since New Year’s Day after suffering a thigh strain in the goalless draw with Oldham Athletic.

The former Sunderland striker was making his return following a lengthy absence that had seen him out of action since October but his comeback lasted just 34 minutes.

And Lee has revealed the 31-year-old has suffered a setback after the Pools boss had expected his return to training last week.

“Jordan has been a bit longer than what we hoped, it’s a tricky injury when it’s a thigh muscle,” Lee told The Mail.

“He progressed nicely and looked like he was going to be back in training last week then there was a slight little irritation so we’ve had to pull him out a little bit.”

Cook has made just five appearances for Pools since arriving at the Suit Direct Stadium in September.

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