RONNIE MOORE is likely to be back in charge for Hartlepool United’s next game tomorrow night, after a 100 per cent start to the season continued in his absence.

Pools have won three straight games at the start of the season for the first time since 1972, but two of those victories have been in Moore’s absence.

He missed Tuesday’s cup win at Fleetwood and Saturday’s triumph at York after flying to Spain to be with his daughter, who was taken to hospital with pneumonia.

Moore initially hoped to fly back home for the York game, and Sam Collins, Moore’s right-hand man, said: “Ronnie should be back Tuesday, we carry on. He’s away and we speak all the time, there’s nothing to change it’s about making sure it’s smooth and the players know what is expected. They are a good group, they are all good pros.

“We all hope he’s back next week and I’ve missed him – we normally take turns to drive and I’ve had to do it myself!’’

Collins has been assisted by Ian McGuckin, the club’s head of youth in the last week and added: “We hope Ronnie is back Tuesday, we spoke on Saturday morning and Charlotte is much better. She is sleeping and that is helping her recovery.

“Expectations are rising and people will expect it the way we have started. We knew we would have a good following again and to go there and bring such a good following is a great feeling – we’ve not won here in 27 years so it is good for them.’’

Collins added: “The fitness of the team was pleasing – ten minutes to go and we are getting forward to score. We missed chances in the first-half. Like on Tuesday we could have scored more, but we have won the game.

“We have a good blend, we will improve and when it all clicks together we will only get better.’’

Defender Harry Worley left the ground on crutches with an ankle injury after being clattered by Reece Thompson and Collins added: “Harry went off early and Matthew Bates then grew into the game. He’s not been involved in the opening games and improved as the game went on, did very well.

“I think it was one of those games when I’m watching and wanting to be there, heading balls away but the lads were superb again.’’