SAM COLLINS is ready to take on the challenge at Hartlepool United for however long he is entrusted with the task.

With Pools travelling to Exeter tomorrow for Saturday’s League Two game, they head south without a manager after Colin Cooper quit last weekend.

Collins took charge for Tuesday’s JPT game with Sheffield United and, while the game ended in a 2-1 defeat, Pools gave a much brighter performance than of late.

Prospective managers Mark Venus and Graham Kavanagh took in Tuesday’s game, with the latter having already spoken with the club over a short-term appointment.

But the improvement engineered by Collins on Tuesday offered some encouragement and, while the permanent position may have come too soon for the centre-half, it’s a job he is ready to take on if asked.

“We’ll have to see what happens. Results could dictate the situation,’’ he said. “What you will get, for however long I am in charge, is lads who will give 100 per cent.

“I can accept them making mistakes and losing but what I cannot accept is players not giving everything that they have got.

“Every player on that pitch gave everything.’’

Tellingly Cooper dropped two experienced and under-performing players in striker Marlon Harewood and captain Matthew Bates.

Goalkeeper Scott Flinders took the responsibility of leading the side, ahead of normal stand-in Neil Austin.

Collins indicated that the pair won’t necessarily return at St James’ Park at the weekend.

“It was my choice to do what I did,’’ said Collins. “From Saturday night I had my own thoughts over what I wanted to do and how I wanted to play.

“I’m a strong character and whatever way I think is right then I will do it that way.

“If the lads train well on Thursday and Friday then whoever impresses me, if it’s still me in charge for Saturday I will pick the team I see fit.

“I said before the game on Tuesday to  the lads that it was up to  them to make it difficult for me to leave them out of the team.

“If it is me for Saturday then I’ve some big decisions to make.’’

And he added: “I’m not scared to play the younger players one bit. I think a lot of these kids and I’ve played alongside them and seen them come through from the age of 14. I’ve seen them play. I understand the situation we are in, but if I feel it’s right to play them then I will play them.’’

Pools’ winger Jack Compton – who was Cooper’s first signing as Pools boss – will be out of action for at least three months.

The winger has suffered a knee problem and needs surgery, which he will undergo today.

Pools lost to the Grecians at Victoria Park in the final game of last season, but won at St James’ Park during a positive run of form and results last November.

Collins said: “Exeter have been doing well and we will work towards that game. Until I am told differently we will prepare for Exeter and be hard to beat while causing them problems. We had a really good result there last year and then we hope to do the same.’’

“I told the players the team for Tuesday’s game on Saturday night. I felt as a player it was easier if I knew I was playing and that’s how I felt.

 “I asked the players for 100 per cent effort and to stick together. They did that. Now we have to move on to Exeter, the most important game and if we get the same type of performance and enthusiasm we have a chance.’’