Robbie Elliott: "Sam has already got some good players in his squad at Newcastle. If you look at who he has signed so far, there are a few free transfers in there and he hasn't spent that much cash.
Exciting Times And Ex-Toon Player Wishes He Was Starting Again
"I expect there will be a few more additions to come too. These are exciting times.
"Having played under Sir Bobby Robson and Kevin Keegan at Newcastle and having had a taste of the good times, I think Sam is capable of producing something similar.
"He has a reputation of bring the best out of players and, by getting that extra percentage, who knows where they can go?
"All I know from a player's point of view is that the lads will enjoy training. And for me, if I was looking to join a club, Newcastle would be a fantastic one to join. The facilities will be 100% spot on. The backroom team will be there to support each player.
"It's a good game for me (Hartlepool v Newcastle) but it is also both clubs' first game of the season. Realistically, it should be a good game and a good occasion.
"For Newcastle it is great for them to bring a strong squad here, especially for the Hartlepool fans who don't always see Premiership players.
"Newcastle will bring strong support down and I'm looking forward to seeing that.
"I came to Hartlepool because I thought it would be a good challenge. Yes, it is League One, but there are a lot of big teams in this division now and Hartlepool as a club are geared-up to play at a higher level.
"The Football League gets harder and harder each year that goes by. I did a lot of background work before I joined Hartlepool to see what type of a club they are and I found out they play the game in the right way.
"I spoke to the manager Danny Wilson and he already had signed six players to compete in League One.
"After getting promotion last season they are in the right place and hopefully they can start the season with a bit of momentum."