WHILE Chris Turner made 12 new signings during the summer to reshape the Pool">Hartlepool United playing squad, the club’s manager also made a key behind the scenes recruitment.

Pools’ much-improved defensive form this season has been put down to the form of Turner’s players, both collectively and individually. But Turner has also hailed the role played by his goalkeeping coach.

Gary Walsh, the former Manchester United and Middlesbrough goalkeeper, joined in the summer, replacing Swindon-bound George Wood.

Goalkeeeper Scott Flinders has impressed since his move from Crystal Palace, as Turner solved what had been a problem position to great effect.

Saturday’s win at Swindon was Flinders’ second clean sheet in as many games.

After making just 13 appearances for Palace in three years at Selhurst Park after moving from Barnsley, Flinders spent time on loan at five different clubs in search of first-team football.

But he’s already had 16 outings for Pools and the benefits of being first-choice are obvious.

“Scott has performed consistently from day one,” said Turner.

“He hung onto strikes. His form is how you want your goalkeeper to be, commanding and steady.

“I don’t like praising players too much because it’s sod’s law they have a fall.

“But Scott is a fine goalkeeper who will be a top-class keeper. A lot of praise in that as well – and Scott will tell you the same – is for Gary Walsh, our goalkeeping coach. He’s been a great find for us this summer.

“Obviously Scott’s performances this season prove that and Cooky (Mark Cook) was excellent for the reserves at Leeds last week as well, so well done Gary Walsh.’’ In front of Flinders, Turner’s central defenders have been equally impressive as they formed a new partnership.

“Sam Collins was outstanding again at Swindon on Saturday, he’s playing now like the player we knew when we signed him,’’ said Turner.

“He’s fitter this season and, with Gary Liddle alongside, has been very good. The defensive unit has been very good all along.’’