Hartlepool United have underlined their intent to keep on producing their own young talent by unveiling a new Recruitment Co-Ordinator for their Centre of Excellence.

Tony Metcalf has been named in the new post having worked with the Club for the previous eight years both as a Coach and as Welfare Officer to look after young players' education and general well-being.

In the brand new role, Metcalf will be using his vast experience of North East football to ensure Pools are well-placed to secure up and coming talent from the surrounding areas.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for me and one I can't wait to get started on," he commented.

"It's an honour to be asked to help my hometown club in this way and it shows the commitment that Hartlepool United have to developing its own talent.

"Initially I'll be looking to involve more people in the local area with the Club - that's both schools and local junior football clubs.

"A move like this shows that the Football Club are forward-thinking and value the Centre of Excellence.

"We have always had good Coaches at junior level at this Club and now we will be working hard to make sure we bring the best young players to them."

Director of Youth Terry Mitchell has welcomed the appointment and admits he is excited at the prospect of seeing Pools compete with the regions bigger clubs in terms of player development.

"Getting Tony in to this role gives us a more co-ordinated approach to recruiting players," Mitchell explained.

"I see it as a vital role because we've got one of the best Centre of Excellences in the country but we still need to work hard to attract the right players.

"For Tony to come in will be a major step forward - we not only want to compete with the big teams in this area, we want to be better than they are," he added.

"I'd like to thank IOR and Chairman Ken Hodcroft who have once again backed us superbly in our drive to ensure Hartlepool United can find and develop the best young talent in the region."