ANTONY Sweeney admits the manager’s office at Hartlepool United’s training ground and home ground has been left open.

Sweeney and Ian McGuckin are in temporary charge of Pools and will oversee Saurday’s FA Cup tie with Brackley.

And, until a permanent replacement for Craig Hignett and Ged McNamee is appointed, then the manager’s chair won’t be being used.

Sweeney, speaking at this morning’s press conference, admitted: “It’s been hectic. Being on the training pitch has been good because that’s what I’m used to more than the other things that come with it.

“Training has been lively, the players have been excellent – which is required in the position we are in.

“It’s a bit strange still, we have left the manager’s office free and no-one in jumping into anyone’s seat.’’

He added: “The whole dynamics are different around the place, we have lost two good members of staff. That means it’s a bit quieter around the place.

“We can only do the best we can in these circumstances.’’

“We haven’t changed a lot, a lot of the stuff Craig and Ged did – I was part of. So that would be a bit hypocritical to change things too much.

“What we have been doing has been good, I was part of it, and it doesn’t always transpire into results. Things will come out in training, planning, sessions and games and it won’t be a million miles away from what we were doing.

“I’m hoping the little tweaks here and there will make a big difference.’’

Pools won 3-0 at Aldershot last Saturday and Sweeney admitted: “Last weekend was a good result. Winning games will give the football club a nice problem.

“I would rather it be that way than lose every game and make it easy for the football club to decide.

“That’s for another day, or the board to decide the best way forward. All we can do it get results and prove we have a decent squad and we aren’t far off – but results and performances are what it’s all about.''