Haslam contribution impresses Cooper (From The Northern Echo)

Haslam contribution impresses Cooper

11:38am Wednesday 1st February 2012 in Hartlepool United News By Nick Loughlin

AS he gets to know his Hartlepool United players in recent weeks, Neale Cooper has welcomed the impact of Steve Haslam.

The utility player was given a rare start, only his second of the season, in the 2-2 draw at Sheffield Wednesday ten days ago.

He was left out of the starting XI when Pools saw off Carlisle at the weekend, as Cooper opted for a more attacking outlook, but there’s every chance he could be back in the team when Pools go to Bury – another of Haslam’s former clubs – on Saturday.

“Steve came in last week and he is one of those boys who is a pleasure to have at the club and who loves being a footballer,’’ said Cooper.

“If he is needed he will play anywhere.

He is doing a good job and taking his coaching badges. What surprised me at Sheffield Wednesday last week was his energy levels – when you have not played for a while to come in like that and play like he did was a hard job. He did a lot of good stuff.

“It’s another one for me, he came in from the cold and is a pleasure to work with, who gives all he has got.

“He knows the game, plays centre- half for the reserves and organises and talks. A top pro.’’ He added: “Steve was excellent last week, but at home you have to be more positive and we wanted to press them back.

“We had Paul Murray sitting against Carlisle and Stevie’s game is more defensive as well, and we wanted to attack.’’ Pools have adopted a high-tempo game under Cooper of late, and the manager admits they wouldn’t be able to play that way if the players weren’t as fit and ready.

They train at Maiden Castle, the home of the sporting arm of Durham University and Cooper admitted: “What has impressed me about the squad and from what people have told me from watching is that they are a really fit side.

“Credit to the work they do here, they do a lot of fitness work with the Durham University sports department.

They do a lot of weights on their own and are a good bunch.

“That’s the other thing to consider when trying to sign players – bringing in someone who will fit in and be part of it. You need players in who will mix in well with the others as that’s a big part of it at this club.

“Once you are in, you have to be part of the set-up and that’s so important to help with the atmosphere.’’ Carlisle’s appeal against the red card issued to Lee Miller on Saturday has been rejected by the FA. He will now serve a three-game ban for violent conduct.

The Cumbrians are also being investigated by the FA after a smoke bomb was let off in the Rink End amongst their supporters. Referee Rob Madley also included in his report the fact that they were playing with an inflatable banana which was pushed on to the pitch in the closing stages and, again, the FA are seeking answers.