Hartlepool: Colin Cooper hails Tony Sweeney professionalism

Hartlepool boss Colin Cooper has hailed the commitment of captain Tony Sweeney.

The midfielder limped off 18 minutes into the League Two game with Southend on 10 August and, after returning to the squad in September, he has been unable to regain his starting place.

when the former Middlesbrough coach became Pools manager in the summer.

"He is a consummate professional and has been a credit to this club in how he conducts himself," said Cooper.

"That's why he's captain. He's worked very hard to get fit and has no qualms about playing regularly for the reserves - as soon as he's needed he'll be absolutely ready."

Meanwhile, the Hartlepool boss has confirmed the club are in talks over the extension of midfielder Matty Dolan's loan spell from Boro.

The 20-year-old has made 15 appearances since arriving on a three-month loan in late August.

Cooper told BBC Tees: "Matty is a positive asset that I really want to keep hold of and I'm hopeful we can sort everything out to keep him here until January."