Hartlepool United signings are already proving their worth '“ Craig Hignett

Hignett was confident he had added “quality” to his squad in the shape of goal machine Padraig Amond, attacking midfielder Nicky Deverdics, defender Toto Nsiala and forward Lewis Alessandra.

And he is delighted the quartet are already proving their worth in the intense heat at La Caleta.

The Pools squad completed their first 90 minutes of pre-season in an in-house match at their training base yesterday - and Hignett was pleased with what he saw.

“We have had a training game - 90 minutes for them all - which was very beneficial,” Hignett told SportMail.

“It was an in-house game, it was their first 90 minutes and the team shape, pattern and play was pleasing.

“I am really pleased with the way the players have taken the new ideas on board - the new players especially.

“All the new lads have come in have real quality and they have shown that in training.

“The new players have all integrated really well and from that point of view I am really pleased.

“To go away early in pre-season was important and it gives them a great chance to get to know each other; by the time we get back they will all be very good friends.

“I am delighted with the way the week has gone.

“If the season started tomorrow I would be happy with what I have got.

“We are still looking and talking but there is nothing else happening yet.”