IT'S no coincidence that Hartlepool United's recent up turn in fortunes has coincided with the return of Mark Tinkler.

The no-nonsense midfielder returned to the side a fortnight ago after an injury-hit start to the season.

His comeback coincided with a win at Blackpool and, after an impressive display against Swansea seven days ago and a midweek Carling Cup defeat at Charlton, Pool go to Chesterfield today in high spirits.

Skipper Ritchie Humphreys, now operating at left-back, can see the obvious benefits.

"Tinks has done very well in the games he's played,'' said Humphreys. "He's been out for a while and gave it everything in those games, so it's understandable he might not last the full game.

"He has an important job in there, winning second balls, winning headers and tackles in midfield. He did very well and can be pleased with his contribution.

"He's experienced and reads the game well and it's good to know he's there in front of us.

"Teams like Swansea, who we played last week, are good going forward and having a holding player in there can help us all.''

Boss Martin Scott is again ready to put his faith in youth.

Michael Maidens is back in contention after sitting out the 3-1 defeat at Charlton and, with Steven Istead, is in contention for a start on the right flank today.

Humphreys admitted: "Full credit to the young boys who came in, Maidens especially, and Turnbull did well in front of the back four when he came on as well.

"The gaffer is never afraid to play the young lads here and they are in there on merit.

"They want to make their way in the game and it's up to the experienced players in the squad to help them along.

"They are not just in there for the experience, they are in there on merit because they deserve to be.

"Results of late have picked up and we've a big squad at the club this season, so it's important everyone is given a chance.''

Pool's away form has been solid this season, with two wins, a draw and just one defeat, at Huddersfield.

That's in contrast to their home form, where Pool have yet to win after five League One attempts.

* Striker Adam Boyd's hopes of a swift comeback from knee surgery have been dashed. Boyd damaged a knee in the defeat to Yeovil three weeks ago and underwent surgery.

But he contracted an infection and has needed two further operations to clear the problem. He was readmitted to hospital where he spent a week and it will be two more weeks before he can begin his rehabilitation.

* Tickets are available for Micky Barron's testimonial dinner on Wednesday, October 26. Sir Bobby Robson is the guest speaker and tickets cost £30, including a five-course meal.

Tickets are available from John Breward on 01429 869148 or 07944657963.

* Gary Johnson has been appointed the new manager of Bristol City.

Johnson has quit as boss of Yeovil to take charge at Ashton Gate after the two clubs reached agreement over a compensation package.

His second home game in charge will be against Pool next Saturday.

The 45-year-old replaces Brian Tinnion, who stepped down after the Robins' poor start to the season culminated in a 7-1 hammering at Swansea this month.

Keith Millen has been in temporary charge at City, but chairman Steve Lansdown moved quickly to secure former Latvia and Cambridge manager Johnson, who has taken Yeovil from the Nationwide Conference to League One in three seasons.

Read more about Hartlepool here.