By Albatross
March 13 2003

Hartlepool United have confirmed that another player has signed an extended contract at Victoria Park: this time it's midfielder Mark Tinkler who has put pen to paper on a new two year deal.

Mark Tinkler has joined Adam Boyd, Mickey Barron and Chris Westwood in committing his future to the club. The news is a big boost for Pools: Tinkler has looked like the complete midfielder this season, scoring 10 times, and has been an important part of our success since arriving from Southend back in the 2000/1 season.

Initially playing as the defensive midfielder in a central three that included Tommy Miller and Paul Stephenson, the former Leeds and York player helped make the Pools midfield a much more solid unit, and arguably the best in the division. After the departure of Miller, and the move to 4-4-2, Tinks has been able to show his ability going forward, notching nine times last season and then reaching double figures this time round. In a bit over 100 games for Pools, Tinks is averaging a goal every five games.

Very few people doubt that Tinkler will at least hold his own in Division 2, and it's a promising sign that one of Pools' most influential players has put pen to paper on a new deal. The 28 year old will be one of the higher earners at the club - don't forget, we signed him because Southend couldn't afford to pay his wages - and it's a further sign that IOR are prepared to back the club.

This now leaves just two of this season's key players out of contract at the end of the season: Ritchie Humphreys and Graeme Lee. The club are believed to be talking to both players, and today's announcement will surely demonstrate to them that Hartlepool United have the ambition to keep moving forward. Who knows, even Gordon Watson may decide to stay for another season!

Mike Newell is obviously delighted, and comments on the Official Website that Tinkler "offers us a lot in the middle of the park" and that he's pleased with the backing he's getting from IOR. It continues to be a great time to be a Poolie, and all we need to do now is get the form on the pitch back on track against Tinkler's former club Southend on Saturday.