Newcastle United and Hartlepool United are aiming to develop a closer partnership with Pools now back in the Football League.

Hartlepool won promotion to League Two on Sunday after they defeated Torquay United on penalties at Ashton Gate.

Pools ended four unwanted years as a non-league club and will now rejoin the basement division of the EFL next season.

With the loan of Toon defender Lewis Cass already proving a success last season, Pools will be hoping to strike up their relationship again with Newcastle, says the Evening Chronicle.

Their promotion offers Newcastle an ideal location to keep an eye on youngsters, help Pools and get vital experience for their Under-23 players.

Pools will get eight loan deals next season and the possibility of Cass returning is already under discussion.