NEALE Cooper knows there is still more to come from Alan Pouton, writes Nick Loughlin.

The Geordie midfielder, on loan from Gillingham, made his fifth appearance for Hartlepool United in Saturday's win over Hull City at Victoria Park.

The trip to Luton on Friday is the final game of his temporary period, but both player and club are keen to extend the stay.

Saturday was his best game for Pool as he and Gavin Strachan dominated midfield.

Strachan has not been a regular this season, but with Tony Sweeney still suspended, the partnership will continue at Kenilworth Road.

"Alan played really well, especially in the first-half when he was excellent,'' said Cooper.

"He's still not fully match fit yet, but he is getting there.

"You can see that because he is dominating games in the first-half, but then he is - by his own admission - tiring a little bit in the second period.

"Maybe that's why Hull got possession in the second period on Saturday, because Gavin is in the same position that he hasn't played that many games."

Pool go to Carlisle in the second round of the LDV Vans Trophy and Cooper said of the unbeaten Conference side: "They are doing well just now.

"We would have liked to have been at home but we don't mind going there. There's obviously the interest with Kevin Henderson and Paul Arnison being there. I am sure they will want to play a part in beating their old club.''

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