CRAIG Hignett admits the start to pre-season for Hartlepool United has gone well.

Pools squad were back in at Maiden Castle yesterday for the first time and, after the first of today’s double session, the squad have been put through their paces.

And the manager said: “I’m really pleased how they have come back and some look a lot leaner than when they left which is good.

“They’ve made an effort to get themselves fit. They all had tailored programmes for summer and you know who has stuck to it.

“All the signings were our first choices and we went and spoke to them all early to get them in.’’

Lewis Alessandra, who signed yesterday from Rochdale met his new team-mates for the first time today.

Pools also have a couple of trialists in Andre Bennett, the son of former Sunderland skipper Gary, and Andrew May, a centre-half with Guisborough.

Hignett said: “Andre, I know from Boro really well and he did well at Gateshead last season. And Andrew May, everyone has said good things about him so we have a look.

“We will have a few trialists in over the close season.’’

Scott Harrison, who was released by Pools at the end of last season, is recovering from a broken toe, but Hignett admits the door is open for a return to the club.

He’s currently undergoing rehabilitation work with Stuart Parnaby, the club’s strength and conditioning coach.

Hignett said: “By the time we get back from Tenerife, Scotty should be ready to join in.

“He’s a great lad, I know that. He lost his way a little bit last season and I won’t shut the door on him.

“The season before last he was fantastic.’’