Jonathan Franks said it was great to work with Hartlepool United legend Brian Honour

The pacy forward has been restored to the starting line-up under Paul Murray and repaid that faith with a brace against East Thurrock to secure a place in the FA Cup third round.

Stockton-born Franks has never been prolific and should have had more against Rocks but he sees no reason why he can’t achieve his best ever return.

And he has praised the impact Pools legend Honour had on him during a short spell as a coach under caretaker Sam Collins, before Murray was appointed.

Horden-born Honour scored 36 goals in 384 matches and he drilled into the forward some key pointers.

“I want to get double figures this season,” Franks told SportMail.

“I have had a slow start goals wise but now I have three I am confident I can kick-on a bit and the more games you play helps.

“When Brian came in he drilled into me to hit the target, hit the target and force the keeper to work.

“Brian was different class and it is a shame he couldn’t stay on because he was brilliant with me.

“The gaffer and Willie have been good too and we have goals in us.”

In his first season at The Vic, Franks netted four in 48 appearances before a career-best six goals in 46 matches last campaign.

He has three to his name this season and is looking to add to that away to Southend United, in Sky Bet League Two.

Struggling Pools are bottom but the Boro Academy graduate says confidence is up after the dramatic point against Newport County and last weekend’s FA cup win.

Franks said: “It all started against Newport and that comeback showed the spirit and the character within the camp.

“The confidence is up that we can get out of the trouble we are in. Hopefully we can take that into Southend and get another result.”