The Glory Boys - Up the Pools!

Decades of struggle had conditioned fans to expect little but, in 1965, a new addition brought an up-turn in fortunes.

“Ex-Sunderland footballer Brian Clough was made manager and injected fresh enthusiasm into the team,” reported the Mail.

Gus McLean later took over and guided Pools to the Third Division. But, the next 23 years proved a rollercoaster ride.

Finally, Cyril Knowles arrived to breathe new life into Pools in 1989. He was “paid handsomely” - and worth every penny.

“He built the team and, when he sadly fell ill, caretaker boss Alan Murray masterminded the finishing promotion burst,” reported the Mail.