Pools wait for McDonald Decision

By Albatross
November 15 2005

Hartlepool United boss Martin Scott is looking to strengthen his squad, and Ipswich winger and striker Dean McDonald is the target.

Although there's been plenty of talk about this deal from East Anglia, Pools are yet to confirm the arrival of McDonald: it seems that first of all the player was going to discuss the move with his agent. The news from Portman Road though is that Pools are interested, and that Joe Royle is happy to accept: the rest is up to Dean.

One of the themes that recurred following the weekend's defeat was the relative lack of firepower up front; another was a feeling that we needed something extra on the right. The arrival of McDonald on loan would add another option for Martin Scott in both areas.

The former Arsenal trainee isn't what you could call tried and tested though. He didn't make a first team appearance for the Gunners, and although he has made eight appearances for Ipswich since joining them in January, five of those have come as a sub and he's yet to hit the back of the net.

The Tractor Boys seem keen on the move, with Joe Royle feeling that McDonald - who can also play in midfield and as a winger - needs first team football if he's to develop. The 5'7" attacker is currently on a 12 month deal, but has spent most of his time in the reserves so far although he did impress when starting against Sheffield Wednesday early in the season. Royle revealed to Ipswich's official site that Pools had been in touch about McDonald, and that he was happy for Dean to come to Pools for an initial month.

Which position will he play if he decides to come to the Vic? I'm not sure, but with pace and no lack of skill mentioned in many reports, here's hoping he proves to be a highly useful addition.