HARTLEPOOL UNITED have been handed some advice following relegation: move quickly.

Ian Rush, the former Liverpool and Newcastle striker, knows all about the nature of the National League.

He may be an Anfield legend, but has watched as his first club, Chester City, have struggled in non league since dopping out of the Football League.

Rush has played and managed Chester, who have suffered massively in recent years and are a long way from a return to League Two.

Pools are confident of appointing a new manager this week as the search for the right man rumbles on at The Northern Gas and Power Stadium.

The Welshman was in Hartlepool recently and admitted: “It's always sad to see a club leave the league as it means so much to the fans that have built a bond with their local side.

“In the case of Hartlepool, they will need to move very quickly to get everything in place.

“The clock is already ticking to the start of the new National League season. Experience will show that they will need to appoint a new manager that knows and has full knowledge of that level - it will be so very different.

“Having vast experience of the league will be hugely significant re a rapid return for the club'

“My old club Chester City have struggled - plus my former side Wrexham have found it difficult since their relegation.’’

And Rush added: “I’ve many friends from around Merseyside that follow Tranmere Rovers, and as we have seen they are ready for a third season at that level - it's not easy to escape.

“The biggest chance Hartlepool will have is the season ahead as they will receive their regular funding from the Football League.

“It's crucial for the club, town, and fans that they have everything in place soon. I so wish them well as I know the pain the exit will be casing the fans in Hartlepool.’’

Rush was speaking at 'An Evening With' hosted by BBC Tees presenter Paul 'Goffy' Gough at the Engineers Social Club on Raby Road.

The event was staged by Hartlepool-based promoter Andy Husband. His company recently attracted another Liverpool great John Barnes to Hartlepool to speak at a similar event.

Rush said: “It was great to see so many people turned out to join me in Hartlepool. They came from all parts and it was a real thrill to chat to fans and to also hear their special memories of my playing days.’’

Promoter Husband said: “Ian Rush was fabulous to work with, he stayed and posed for pictures and signed autographs for his fans. The interview lasted close on 90 minutes .

“He made the trip to Hartlepool via a visit to Asia with his role as an ambassador for Liverpool Football Club, and the reaction and feedback has been brilliant.

“Hartlepool needs these kind of profile events and we aim to give the people of the town more big names in the years ahead.’’