TONY Sweeney has a different aim this pre-season - staying in the Hartlepool United side.

Previous summer campaigns have been all about the midfielder trying to force his way into the squad but, after impressing as last season concluded, the former trainee finally made his mark in the first-team.

Sweeney has maintained his standards since Pool began their pre-season, and there is every chance he will be in the engine room for the season opener against Bradford a week on Saturday.

Sweeney is likely to start against Berwick Rangers tonight and he said: "Going to Holland the other week was good for fitness and getting everyone back together again. At this stage the results don't really matter, it's all about Bradford on August 7.

"We've plenty of competition in midfield and I hope I can do enough to keep my shirt.

"I had a good run at the end of last season and I really enjoyed it. This pre-season is a bit of a different one for me because I've been in the team and I've got something to keep hold of.''

With a new one-year deal under his belt, Sweeney has some security after admitting to some uncertain times last season.

"In the past it was about breaking into team, or the 16 on duty, but hopefully it's a different story for me now,'' he admitted. "I've signed a new contract at the club and I couldn't be happier here.

"I was out of contract and, I'll be honest, there were times last season where I thought my days here might be up.

"I was in the reserves and I was thinking about the possibility of having to go on trial at clubs if there was no future for me here."

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