Steve Haslam was a welcome addition to the Pools squad for Chris Turner this afternoon.

Having managed Haslam before during his time at Sheffield Wednesday, Turner is delighted to be adding him to his ranks in time for the new campaign,

"I think the beauty of Stevie Haslam is that I know him very well," Turner told us.

"I have seen him over a number of years and he is a very consistent player who can play in several positions which is vital at this level."

And, while operating mostly as a right back, the Director of Sport insists the former Bury man will bring versatility to the squad,

"If a crisis opens up somewhere, especially along the back, Steve can fill in all areas - though predominantly he is a right back.

"Neil Austin has been out for a couple of weeks with a groin injury although he did train this morning but it is important to have cover.

"Steve is a quality footballer who should have been signed up in the summer but you get these players who don't get fixed up and I think the beauty of it is that I know him and we are not just plucking someone out of the sky.

"He is good on the training ground and good in the dressing room and that is important."