Pools confirm Howard's return

Hartlepool United's deal to re-sign striker Steve Howard will meet with mixed reactions from the fans - some will say he's too old at 36, others will say you should never go back while just as many will claim his bustling style is perfect for League One.

We'll find out who is right before the season is too old, but former Pools boss Mike Newell, who was Howard's boss for several seasons at Luton, says the big striker will do a good job for the club on and off the pitch.

Comparing Howard to Alan Shearer, Newell says Howard is a magnificent signing who will bring benefits to Pools in more ways than one.

A regular goalscorer wherever he has been since leaving Pools for £120,000 in 1999, Howard is at an age when many fans will fear a repeat of previous experiences with players reaching the end of their careers and arriving at the Vic to see out their time.

But Newell and Pools boss Neale Cooper believe that won't be the case this time. as Howard becomes Cooper's third summer signing after Jonathan Franks and Simon Walton.

Now Pools will be hoping the deal triggers a run on season tickets.