HARTLEPOOL UNITED boss Craig Hignett has wished Sam Allardyce ‘all the best’ when he becomes the next England manager.

Hignett spoke with Allardyce before Pools lost 3-0 to the Black Cats at Victoria Park last night, when the build-up was dominated by claims that the 61-year-old has been offered the national team role.

Sunderland’s first team, including a brilliant Jermain Defoe, made things difficult for Hartlepool in the opening 45 minutes and claimed their three goals during that opening period.

Allardyce stayed away from the dug-out for the second half before departing from the stadium at 9pm, 20 minutes before the end.

And the Hartlepool boss, who didn’t get chance to speak to him afterwards, said: “I spoke to big Sam before and I wished him all the best whatever happens. He is a really nice fella and if that is the case, and I hope it is, then brilliant for him and I wish him all the best.”

But the visit of Sunderland was not just about Allardyce, with Hartlepool desperate to build fitness and team work ahead of their League Two campaign after making a number of signings.

And Hignett, whose side could have had a couple of goals in the second half, said: “The first half they put out a full strength side and it was quality.

“We held our own for ten minutes. After the first goal, it was a mistake by Toto Nsiala, but if you play against Jermain Defoe he will punish you. He was the difference. He was sharper and the movement was so good.

“I wanted a pre-season game where you play against people like that. The first half was 3-0 down but I was reasonably pleased.

“That’s our second game, we are trying to integrate lads. It’s part and parcel of pre-season. We have a few more games coming up.

“Between the two sides I put out tonight in each half I know they will compete. We hit the post a couple of times but I thought we would second half when they took the quality off, even though they had some good players second half.

“On the whole I was pleased with what I saw. It’s only early. I have learned things about people. We have another Saturday game where everyone will play 90. When the whistle goes against Colchester we will be raring to go.”

Hignett handed outings to Scott Harrison, who is yet to sign a new contract, and Liam Donnelly, who is on trial. He will not be making a decision on either at this stage though.