Pools chasing Duffy

11:13am Friday 9th May 2008

HARTLEPOOL United have been credited with interest in Darryl Duffy, the striker they tried to sign 12 months ago.

After an impressive loan stint at Victoria Park, Duffy was courted by Pools but instead left Hull City for Swansea City.

His move to South Wales, however, hasn't been a success and, with the Swans preparing for life in the Championship, the Scottish striker is likely to move on.

He would cost £150,000 - £100,000 less than last summer - and Bristol Rovers and Pools are in the frame for his signature.

Boss Roberto Martinez has admitted: "There has been some interest in Darryl from a couple of teams in League One and we are going to study all the options.

"Sometimes it's important you realise that for the benefit of the player and Swansea City, you need a new challenge.'' Duffy netted only twice in 31 outings this season, making just 12 starts in League One.

"We all know Darryl's a goalscorer, but probably the pattern we've played didn't go in his favour.

"We've been delighted with his attitude, but playing alongside Lee Trundle got the best out of him and since he left it's been hard for Darryl to be himself."

Pools' retained list is expected to be announced today and the big debate is if Joel Porter's name will be on it.

Long courted by Wellington Phoenix, the New Zealand-based side have given Porter a twoweek deadline to sign after offering a three-year deal. The Aussie has been non-committal on his future.

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