Ex-Doncaster, Sheffield Wednesday, Hibernian defender a key play for Hartlepool United

Following a slipshod Pools display at Bristol Rovers, Hignett handed a contract until the end of the season to the veteran centre-half.

Jones had been training at Maiden Castle following his release by Doncaster Rovers after three and a half years at the Keepmoat.

And Hignett’s decision was justified as the 36-year-old produced a “towering” debut performance at Barnet, where Pools won 3-1 against a Bees side who boasted the second best home record in the division .

The Pools boss will be looking for more of the same tomorrow against Dagenham & Redbridge.

“I had seen him training for two weeks and I knew he was fit, but when you put a lad into a game, you never know,” he said.

“But I reiterate what I said after the same that you will not see a better debut.

“I think his first three headers were massive, towering headers.

“Dagenham will be a little like that, they have Doig up front who is decent in the air but Rob won’t have to jump to beat him.

“He does have leadership qaulities – I just think he’s naturally like that as a player.

“He’s had a really good career and been captain more or less wherever he’s been, he just knows the game. He can teach all the young lads here so much.”

But ultimately it’s his physicality which perhaps matters most.

“Rob was just what we needed,” said Hignett. “Look at his size – he’s enormous. He’s 6ft 7in officially, but looks even bigger.”