Both full-back positions have been a priority for Chris Turner throughout the summer and after capturing Darlington right-back Neil Austin, the director of sport was expected to fill the void on the opposite side with Rose.

Pools were on the verge of completing a move only for an unexpected hitch to scupper a deal for the 26-year-old at the final hurdle.

Turner will now look to fresh targets and could resurrect his interest in Manchester City youngster Ryan McGivern, who almost joined Pools on loan last season.

"I had a left-back virtually signed up until late on Tuesday night," said Turner as Pools returned to pre-season training. "But that has fallen through so I will be looking to bring through a left-back in the coming days."

Turner has appointed ex-Middlesbrough and Manchester United keeper Gary Walsh as Pools' new goalkeeping coach, on a part-time basis. Warrington-based Walsh said: "The travelling was a bit of a worry, but I'm going to do it part-time and I said yes straightaway."

Turner said: "Gary is experienced at working at Premiership clubs and with Premiership goalkeepers and I think it's a step forward rather than back. It's an excellent coup for the club to get someone of Gary's experience in."