AS he prepares for his first permanent spell at Hartlepool United boss, Matthew Bates admits his two temporary stints have laid the groundwork for success.

Bates has twice taken over in desperate circumstances, but made an impression on the squad on both occasions.

After being appointed on a permanent basis after a solid 14-game stretch at the end of last season, Bates has had chance to lay down a marker.

A six-week pre-season schedule has prepared manager and players for tomorrow’s National League opener at Maidstone.

And Bates admitted: "I feel 100 per cent ready.

"It is something I have enjoyed and something I have taken to very well.

"I look at it from the start of the summer - everything was still up in the air. We had a new owner, no one knows how that will go. We had new staff, pre-season, etc.

"Now looking back on the summer there are no excuses. Everything has been set up for us behind the scenes, the preparation is done. It's time to perform.

"For a first job I couldn't have asked for a better job. I am thankful for that. I want to prove that the owner was right to hand me the job.’’

He added: "Without the two little stints it would have been difficult.

"Just day-to-day things like negotiating contracts, speaking to players, setting up sessions. It is all news.

"So having that little stint has helped.’’

Bates has made nine signings this summer and has a full compliment of players for tomorrow.

There’s been one permanent departure this week with attacker Jack Munns leaving the club. He could join Dagenham after a 12-month spell at Pools which never worked out.

Bates said: “We have spoke with Jack a few weeks now about going elsewhere and playing football – he didn’t fit into my way or plans.

“He’s a great fella and he’s trained well, but going forward he was never part of the plans. It was down to his agent to earn his money and find a club, I’m sure he’s been talking to one or two and he will get fixed up.’’

Bates added: “We have everyone available, a full squad. We have two light days to come to keep them fresh and it’s about picking a team and a squad. Keeping them all happy is part of my job – to be honest with them. Impress me in training.

“It’s about getting the best squad on a weekend and that’s how I work – no guaranteed spots in there for anyone.’’