PHIL Brown's imminent appointment at Hartlepool United has stalled. 

The former Pools defender was expected to be confirmed as Neale Cooper's replacement this afternoon, but talks have broken down this afternoon and Brown has left the discussions.

Brown, with his long-term right hand man Brian Horton, watched Pools reserve side at Gateshead on Tuesday night and was confident of being named boss today.

It is understood that the split is not definitive and there is hope that a deal can still be agreed between both parties.

Brown appeared to have been favoured ahead of John Hughes, Colin Cooper and Craig Short for the post.