Why Dave Challinor hopes Hartlepool United's top prospects are 'snapped up' in January transfer window

Pools are currently looking to make progress on the transfer front and build on Challinor’s loan signings of Tyler Hamilton, Mark Shelton and Gary Liddle as well as the permanent acquisition of Irish forward Aidan Keena.

Liddle’s loan from Walsall ends at the end of the month though both the manager and player are keen to have the deal extended until the end of the 2019-20 campaign.

But when it comes to further additions, the United boss has admitted that players may have to leave the club in order to make way for new arrivals.

And Challinor would take any significant interest in his players from Football League clubs as a compliment.

“I hope we have some of our players snapped up because it means we’re doing something right,” he said.

“January is a really tough window for Football League clubs and it’s a little bit risky.

“I suppose what you can do is if teams are looking players from a lower level and there’s nothing to play for or there not in a situation where their season is on the line then potentially you can pick up different things.”

Young defender Peter Kioso is one Pools player being monitored by a number of Football League clubs while Gavan Holohan’s form since coming into the side is thought to have attracted interest.

While Challinor would be open to potential outgoings, he claims nothing concrete has developed.

“There’s been nothing from a club perspective but ultimately moving forward I want people to be interested in our players because it means we have good players and hopefully being successful,” the 44-year-old added.

“As far as I am aware and the information I have, there has been nothing so far.

“The aim for us is to be successful, it’s also to improve the players and help them fulfil their ambitions and hopes to be Football League players. The best case scenario is that they become Football League players here and if we’re edging towards that then hopefully be a desire for them to be part of that.”

*Pools will face Sunderland in the Durham Challenge Cup quarter-final on Thursday January 23 (7pm).

The match will take place at Eppleton Colliery Welfare in Hetton.

Pools brushed aside Northern League opposition Shildon and Tow Law Town in the opening two rounds while the Black Cats booked their place in the last-eight as they beat Willington 5-1 in the second round.

Admission is priced at £3 for adults and £1 for concessions.