HARTLEPOOL United last night hardened their stance over Micky Nelson's transfer saga.

Following a week in which Hull City made a £100,000 bid for the big defender and speculation that another club had this week lodged their interest, Pool issued a strongly-worded statement.

The club's only previous comment was to confirm they had received Nelson's request, not to reveal if it had been accepted.

Nelson and his agent have been in dispute with the club over a new contract and last month the 24-year-old asked to leave Victoria Park.

Pool boss Neale Cooper this week revealed his frustration over the chain of events, admitting: "It is hard for Nelse at the moment. It must be difficult for him mentally because there has been so much going on.

"Whatever happens, something needs to be sorted out.''

Now it appears as though the club won't allow him to leave, citing the player as 'an integral part of the team'.

Nelson has been a mainstay in Cooper's side since his £70,000 move from Bury in the summer of 2003.

And he could be part of Cooper's plans for a long time to come.

The statement read: "Although it is usually club policy not to comment, the club would like to clarify its position.

"The club's chairman is currently in the Middle East and has not entered into any negotiations with Hull City, nor has the club at any time insisted Michael is worth more than Hull's offer, nor requested an improved offer from Hull City.

"The club has not placed Michael on any official transfer lists, as Michael is a registered player with this club with a binding contract of employment.

"This club has no desire for Michael to leave, as he is an integral part of the team.''

Hull boss Peter Taylor admitted he is unlikely to up his offer, refusing to pay 'silly money' for a new signing.

Pool have Ben Clark back in the squad for tomorrow's FA Cup tie with Aldershot at Victoria Park, after he came through Wednesday's reserve game with no reaction to his hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, Andy Appleby has said a big thank you to Blyth boss Harry Dunn.

Dunn has twice signed the teenager on loan, first at Whitby and then at Blyth.

And Appleby, who scored the winner in last week's dramatic game with Bournemouth, admits a spell in the UniBond League has done him good.

"I went out to Blyth and Whitby and it really helped me a lot,'' admitted the Sunderland-born striker.

"Playing in the UniBond League meant I was playing against a lot of tougher players, more experienced players, and I scored a few goals there as well so it helped my confidence a bit.

"Then I scored twice for the reserves last week against Preston and then scored for the first-team as well, so going out on loan has been a big help.

"I should have scored at Oldham on Tuesday after I came on. The ball came across and it hit me on the calf.''

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