RICHARD MONEY. Remember him?

The shortest of tenures as Hartlepool United manager saw him disappear into the Seaton Carew fog like John Darwin following a disagreement in a fish and chip shop with a supporter.

Replaced by Craig Hignett, the negativity was replaced by a spark. The club’s director of football was, in essence, a manager in waiting; although he would never admit it, or probably even see it that way.

Hignett’s persona is infectious. A smile, a joke, an arm around a player. Go and express yourself. There’s no confused messages or muddled selections. Players can perform with freedom.

The negativity which engulfed the Super 6 Stadium was replaced by an atmosphere and outlook which the players recognised and responded to.

If Money had remained in charge, then Pools would not be going into the season with a sense of optimism. He deserves credit for three things: walking away when he realised the job wasn’t for him, signing Michael Raynes and landing Nicke Kabamba.

Both have turned their loan spells into permanent deals. Both should have big roles to play this season.

Recruitment has been positive, even if Pools are a bit top heavy on midfielders. There’s eight in the squad who can play central midfield. All have different attributes, but perhaps the most important of them all is Gus Mafuta.

Pools have not had a physically imposing enforcer since Mark Tinkler. Mafuta showed on the final day of the season what he is all about as he roamed around the pitch for Salford kicking, tackling, fouling, competing against Pools. He was taken off before he was sent off.

He will give the others a platform to perform. Nicky Featherstone should be a more creative performer – if he plays. Liam Noble won’t need to worry about defending – if he plays - and remember he was the division’s best player when promoted from it with Forest Green.

And therein lies Hignett’s issue: keeping everyone happy. The frantic and physical nature of the division means Pools will need them all, but how many are going to be happy when they are left out even for the opening game tomorrow?

Players who were regulars last season may not even make the five-man bench this time.

The capture of goalkeeper Ben Killip is a one where Pools have gone for promise and potential over experience as Scott Loach moved on. His distribution from the back should give an added dimension.

Pools have physicality, strength, pace and height now. Those four characteristics were missing as they floundered in the last two seasons with squads not fit for National League purpose.

Experience of the division means Pools know what to expect. Now they appear well equipped for it.