HARTLEPOOL United boss Chris Turner is still waiting to complete the signing of Southend midfielder Mark Tinkler - but has already completed one deal this week.

Turner has extended the loan deal of Steve Baker after the Middlesbrough defender impressed during his first month on loan from the Riverside.

The Pool chief held talks with former Leeds and York man Tinkler last week and is hopeful of tying up the deal in time for Saturday's trip to Scunthorpe - a rehearsal of the FA Cup clash between the sides on November 18.

Tinkler admitted earlier this week he was reluctant to leave Roots Hall after impressing this season, but is being pushed out becasue of financial difficulties at the club. He has recently rejected a move to Carlisle.

Turner, meanwhile, is pleased with Baker's impact. "He has done very well behind the two centre-halfs,'' said Turner. "We have missed Micky Barron in there, but Steve has made that loss a lot smaller.

"He has come in and done a good job for us. He is happy to stay because he is playing regular football - something he is not getting at Middlesbrough - and if someone is watching him then they can see they are getting a good defender there.

"Micky will step up his training this week. He won't make the reserve game on Wednesday, but maybe next week and could be on the bench for the Kidderminster game later in the month.''

Colin West's reserve side entertain Hull this afternoon.

Ian Clark will continue his comeback from an ankle injury, while Craig Midgley could be given another chance to press his claims for a first-team place on Saturday after impressing as a substitute last weekend.

Canadian utility man Carl Fletcher - who has 25 international caps - will play as he tries to earn a move to Victoria Park