BLackburn Rovers, hands off Craig Hignett says Hartlepool United legend

That was the prediction of Pools legend Joe Allon, who was the leading scorer when the club clinched their second promotion in 1990-91.

Allon was back in town to be part of the event to mark the 25th anniversary of that success.

The striker was joined by other heroes of that campaign at a function at Seaton Social Club to raise money for Hartlepool & District Hospice.

And Allon believes Pools fans could be celebrating again in 12 months.

“It was a poor end to the season and Higgy won’t disagree with that,” Allon told SportMail.

“But when he took the reins he got the club to a place of stability quite quickly and he’ll be looking to move it on.

“I’m sure in the close season there will be comings and goings, players coming in because he’ll want to put his stamp on it,

“Higgy’s a good man and he’ll be good for Hartlepool United. So back off Blackburn, he’s not your’s, he’s ours!

“I’m sure he’ll be looking to get Pools up challenging at the top end of League Two.”

On the subject of Blackburn, things appear to have cooled on the Hignett front.

SportMail reported on May 11 how he had emerged as the bookies favourite for the vacant Rovers job.

It is understood Blackburn are at the interview stage with four on their shortlist with another ex-Pools man tipped to replace Paul Lambert.

Neil Warnock, who quit Rotherham United after keeping them in the Sky Bet Championship, is favourite for the Ewood Park post with Russell Slade, Neil Readfearn and Alan Stubbs other candidates.