Rob Jones signs new Hartlepool deal as player/coach

Defender Rob Jones has signed a new deal to stay at Hartlepool next season and will take on a player/coach's role.

Jones, 36, is keen to extend his playing career and combine it with coaching duties in the club's academy.

"I'm really pleased that Rob has agreed the new deal," Pools boss Craig Hignett told the official website.

"He had a really positive influence on the squad when he came in last season. His experience, organisation and ability are benefits to us and he showed that both in games and in training.

"To have him around the place is a bonus for me because he's a proper professional and the young lads in our group can learn a lot from him."

Former Scunthorpe, Sheffield Wednesday and Doncaster centre-half Jones was Hignett's first signing at the club when he joined in March in a deal until the end of last season and he made seven first-team appearances.