RAJ SINGH, the new Hartlepool United chairman, has confirmed the make up of the club’s board of directors.

Pools have not operated with a board since the days of Garry Gibson in the early 1990s.

And, after his deal was ratified last Friday, the owner has moved quickly – and his next task is to appoint a new manager, which should be confirmed early next week.

Jeff Stelling, who has joined up with Singh in investing to secure the future of the club, will remain as club president.

Craig Hignett, the club’s director of football, will be part of a five-man operation.

Also involved are David Arthur and Ian Scobbie.

Arthur is a chartered accountant, who has offered his services on a voluntary basis.

Scobbie, another volunteer, is a solicitor with more than 30 years of experience, in particular within a sporting environment.

Singh also hopes to appoint a new chief executive shortly.

Interviews have taken place for the vacant managerial position. Matthew Bates remains in caretaker charge for the final game of the season at Tranmere.

Singh, in a video interview on the club website, said: “I think sooner rather than later, we have met with a few people now and we spoke with Matty last Friday and again this week .

“You need the manager in asap to give the best start to make plans and recruit players. We want, with a bit of luck, someone in place next week.

“We have done a lot of work on that, working for weeks now, knowing the takeover would happen so we have already done a lot of digging and meeting people.’’

Of the Tranmere game, with hundreds of Pools fans travelling en-masse in fancy dress – as clowns - as has become the tradition, Bates admitted: “I think it will be a party atmosphere.

“I don’t think staying up will be celebrated, but it’s the last game of the season and one everyone can enjoy.

“I want the fans to enjoy it, the players, our staff, I want to enjoy it, it could be my last game though I hope it isn’t.

“It’s been a long season, not just for myself but for everyone, the players, the staff and fans.

“It’s been a hard, hard season, especially with all the stuff going on of the field.

“It will be nice when it’s all over with to be honest.’’