Jonathan Franks believes Hartlepool United are 'in safe hands' under Gary Liddle

Along with assistant head coach Adam Clayton, first team coach Liddle was appointed to take charge of Pools ahead of Saturday's trip to Scunthorpe United following head coach Lee Clark's explosive resignation at the weekend.

Clark, who was only appointed in May, stepped down from his role in the immediate aftermath of Saturday's 3-1 loss at home to newly-promoted Worthing, his side's sixth defeat in seven matches.

Having been the subject of criticism from the terraces throughout the game, Clark stormed straight down the tunnel following the full-time whistle before telling the media of his decision to resign after just nine games at the helm.