NEW Hartlepool United boss John Askey knows there’s no time for a settling-in period and has told his players he needs immediate buy-in after replacing Keith Curle as boss.

Former York City manager Askey has been appointed as new manager of Pools, less than 24 hours after Curle was sacked.

Askey is joined by Mark Goodlad as assistant manager, with Tony Sweeney continuing in his role as first team coach.

Askey takes charge of a Pools side just a point and a place above the League Two relegation zone.

The 58-year-old was most recently in charge at York, where he was surprisingly sacked early this season despite leading the Minstermen to promotion from National League North.

He's previously managed in League One and Two with Shrewsbury and Port Vale and won promotion from the National League with Macclesfield.

Askey will take charge for the first time against Walsall at the Suit Direct Stadium on Saturday.

"This is an exciting project to be involved with but everyone has to buy into that project," said the new boss.

"It is a quick turnaround but one we are relishing. We ask the fans to stick with us and back the players. We will make sure that every player is giving their all for the shirt and we look forward to seeing you all this coming Saturday."

Chairman Raj Singh said: "We had to move very quickly to find out who was available and ready to come in immediately given the challenge ahead.

"I would like to welcome John and Mark to the club and wish them the best of luck in trying to retain our league status. A couple of people have pointed out to me that John was very popular with York fans. In fact, the majority of them would like to have him back. For me, that is always a good sign and here’s to hoping that he is just as popular and liked as much by our fans in the time ahead."

Curle was sacked after winning just six of his 24 games in charge of Pools, with assistant Colin West having also left the club.

Singh said: “This has been one of the most difficult decisions I’ve had to make at Pools. Keith and Colin in so many ways have improved the football club and our culture. They are both consummate professionals and they have genuinely been a pleasure to work with."