HARTLEPOOL United boss Neale Cooper continues to be courted by Dunfermline.

The Scot, who steered Pool to the play-offs in his first season at Victoria Park, is among five names being considered for the vacant Pars job.

It was believed their interest in Cooper had cooled after former Spain boss Javier Clemete declared his intentions to move to Scotland last weekend.

But, after David Hay and Sandy Clark were interviewed, Cooper remains firmly in their thoughts.

Ex-Burnley boss Stan Ternant is also in the frame, and Clemete will be interviewed, but a Scottish insider revealed: "Clemete is the big name who is in the running, but Neale Cooper is very well thought of. He has done a superb job at Hartlepool.''

Cooper spent five years at Fir Park, making over 100 appearances for The Pars between 1991 and 1996. Last week the Pool boss said: "I can't comment. All I can say is that, at the moment, I am happy where I am."

But Cooper could be tempted to return north of the border, with the added attraction of UEFA Cup football with the club next season.

Ex-Pool defender Mark Venus is likely to team up with his former Ipswich teammate Tony Mowbray at Hibs. Mowbray was recently appointed manager at Easter Road and wants Venus as his No 2.

* Supporters have until Saturday, June 19, to take advantage of discounted season tickets.

* Former Pool favourite Tommy Miller spent last weekend in hospital - to solve a problem he suffered at Victoria Park in May 1999.

Midfielder Miller, now with Ipswich, was clattered by Carlisle midfielder Richard Prokas during a Division Three game, which Pool drew 0-0 as they staved off the threat of relegation to the Conference.

And, after suffering discomfort since the challenge, he needed a mouth brace fitted to play last season, and had corrective surgery last weekend. Surgeons had to break his jaw before inserting a steel plate into his face.

He left hospital on Monday and visits a specialist tomorrow, when he is expected to be given the all-clear.

Read more about Hartlepool here.