NICKY DEVERDICS has returned to Dover from Hartlepool United – in the hope of rediscovering his form.

The attacking midfielder moved to Pools from the National League side in the summer after his contract expired, but his career back in his native North-East has yet to take off.

Deverdics could have moved to Gateshead on loan last week, but opted instead to stay at Pools and impress new boss Dave Jones.

After 15 goals and 18 assists last season, Deverdics has just two goals in 24 outings, and his last appearance came in the 3-2 win over Morecambe on December 30.

He played for Pools’ reserves last week in front of Jones, but was left out of the match-day squad against Yeovil at the weekend.

A Dover statement said: “Nicky of course needs no introduction to Dover fans after he captained Whites into the National League play-off semi-finals last season.

“The 29-year old Geordie, who is in line to make his return in our home league clash with Wrexham on Saturday, joined the League Two side last summer after spending two seasons at Crabble.”

Meanwhile, Pools next two games – at Mansfield on Saturday and Luton next Tuesday – have both been made all-ticket. Mansfield tickets are on sale until 2pm on Friday.