HARTLEPOOL United’s hopes of signing a new centre-forward have been raised.

Boss Ronnie Moore was close to landing a striker last Friday, but the deal was pulled at the last minute by the other club involved.

Cambridge striker Ryan Bird played in his side’s 6-2 thumping by Portsmouth on Saturday, but was left out of the squad to face Wimbledon last night.

And after the Us landed Matt Harrold on loan, manager Richard Money could now be prepared to allow Bird out on loan.

Pools and two Conference clubs are keen on the former Portsmouth forward.

Bird turned down the chance to leave during the January transfer window, but with options limited at the Abbey Stadium, he could leave now.

Money said: "He had an option to move late in the window, but turned it down. We've told him we think it's time for him to move on, but it's not happened yet and while that's the case he'll still be involved with the group.’’

Pools’ reserves yesterday beat Mansfield Town 8-0 at Billingham Town.

Brad Walker set up Nicky Featherstone for the first on two minutes.

Trialist John Cofie, a striker once of Manchester United, was injured trying to convert a chance and was replaced, before Jordan Jewson made it two.

Jack Blackford got the third, before two from midfielder Walker.

Darren Holden netted the sixth after only 34 minutes.

Skidmore, on 54 minutes, scored number seven and Jordan Jewson completed the rout.

Pools' keeper Jonathan Maxted saved a penalty and Pools could easily have racked up double figures.

Pools: Maxted, Richards, Nearney, Jones (Cunningham 81), Holden, Featherstone (Briggs 67), Walker, Skidmore, Jewson, Blackford, Cofie (Howes 14).

Meanwhile, an open meeting is being held in the Corner Flag at Victoria Park after Saturday’s game with AFC Wimbledon to discuss the formation of a supporters’ trust.

Following the recent failed takeover of the club and amid concerns over the current situation on the pitch, Pools fans have taken advice from several existing supporters trusts – including Darlington and York City, and it is hoped that progress will be made at the inaugural meeting.