Middlesbrough: Hartlepool sign David Atkinson on one-month loan

David Atkinson's signing will use up Hartlepool's ration of five loan players in the team at any one time

Hartlepool have signed utility man David Atkinson on an initial one-month loan from neighbours Middlesbrough.

The 21-year-old, who can play anywhere across the back four or in midfield, has been training with Pools for the last two days.

"In the past, he's had some trouble on the injury front, but there's no doubting his ability as a footballer," said manager Colin Cooper.

"Physically, he'll be more than up to the job as he's in great condition."

Atkinson, who has captained Middlesbrough's Under-21 team, was a regular on the bench for Aitor Karanka's Championship side at the end of last season, but is yet to make a first-team appearance.

His professional debut now looks set to come for Pools in Saturday's home game against Portsmouth.

Cooper's side are currently next to bottom of the table, having won just once in nine matches this season, against Shrewsbury Town earlier this month.

Atkinson is the third Boro player to move to Victoria Park on loan, following striker Charlie Wyke and winger Ryan Brobbel.

They also have Sunderland defender Scott Harrison and teenage Newcastle United goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, bringing their loan contingent up to five players in all.