Hartlepool United sign David Atkinson on one-month loan

Middlesbrough's David Atkinson has joined League Two side Hartlepool United on loan for one month.

Atkinson, a utility defender and midfielder, is now the third Boro player to join Hartlepool on loan.

Pool manager Colin Cooper told reporters: "In the past, he's had some trouble on the injury front, but there's no doubting his ability as a footballer.

"Physically, he'll be more than up to the job as he's in great condition."

United have won just one in nine matches this campaign and sit second-from-bottom in League Two.