NEALE COOPER had the response he wanted from one of his dropped regulars – now he wants the rest of his Hartlepool United squad to follow in Andy Monkhouse ’s footsteps.

The left winger was left out of the starting XI in last weekend’s game with Shrewsbury, but was introduced from the bench to nab a late equaliser.

While it remains to be seen if he is back for tomorrow’s game at Colchester, Cooper has been pleased with his attitude.

“He’s worked well this week,’’ he said.

“When they’re not picked they’re frustrated and I speak to them – it’s not nice being left out. But the reaction I got from him, perfect.

“No-one is a scapegoat here – we’re all in this together. It’s not about picking individuals.

“Certain players have to do better and get back to the standards I know they’re capable of – and they know that.

“I feel that everyone is pulling in the same direction.’’ Another regular axed last week was Neil Austin , the right back replaced by Jack Baldwin. The teenager is set for a run in the side now and Cooper said: “Neil is a big player for us but I felt I had to take him out.

“He’s not the Neil Austin I saw last season, so you have to work with him and see what you can do to get that back.’’ “Jack was the pick of the bunch last week, winning tackles, headers, picking out balls going forward.

“He’s still 18, but he’s a young boy with experienced shoulders – but that’s the type of boy you want and he was the most pleasing thing on the day. His best position is centre- half and he can do a job in midfield.’’ Pools will practice at Durham this morning before heading down the A1, after Cooper and his coaching team instigated a new training schedule.

The visitors sacked John Ward this week and yesterday appointed Joe Dunne as their new boss.

Cooper said: “It’s been a tough few weeks and it has been for myself as well, I’m not denying that – but I’ve had great support from everyone at the club.

“It’s a shame because John Ward is a very nice man and a very well respected coach and manager.

“He was assistant to Graham Taylor when I was at Aston Villa and he was a fantastic coach.

“Unfortunately he’s lost his position but sometimes that can spur a team on.

“But I’m only interested in how Hartlepool do and how our reaction is.

“We have to take the positives from last week into this game. Our away form was good last season and that’s what we have to aim for.’’