BRAD Halliday has his sights set on Middlesbrough’s first team – and accepts a spell at Hartlepool United can help get him there.

The right-back has moved from Boro’s Under-21s to League Two and, after two very impressive displays for Pools, he’s proving his worth.

He took the man of the match honours in Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Cambridge and, with Michael Duckworth suffering a set-back in his recovery from a hamstring strain, he can expect an extended run in the side.

“I was a regular for Boro reserves, started as captain this season, which is good for confidence, but this is different completely,’’ he said. “The physicality is very different.

“Going out on loan is a big decision, I enjoy it at Boro and want to break into their first-team, but to develop as a player I need to come out on loan.’’

“Under-21s football is different – this means a lot more. The fans want to see their team do well, Under-21s is a good standard, but it’s not playing for points or your livelihood.

“It’s challenging in League Two. Academy football is about getting the ball down and passing it, it’s good and is a good grounding for League Two, but this is a lot harder and a lot stronger.’’

He added: “I saw a lot of the ball, I like going forward and it’s a strong part of my game. We needed to get it right in the final third.

“I felt I should have scored, I’m disappointed I didn’t. A rush of blood and I don’t get in that position very much.

“It’s good to be here, I know the players here because there’s a lot of local lads and I’ve settled in well. It’s helpful coming into a team when I know players already.

“Scott Harrison is a good player, he’s played a lot of football at this level and he talks to me a lot which helps.’’