Andrew Nelson returns to Sunderland

Hartlepool's on-loan striker Andrew Nelson has returned to parent club Sunderland amid fears a knee injury has cut short his season.

Nelson, 19, was forced out of Saturday's home draw against Plymouth after stepping off the bench and scans have revealed medial ligament damage.

"The scan confirmed our worst fears," Pools' head physio Ian Gallagher told the club's official website.

"Andrew has now returned to Sunderland for treatment, but the nature of the injury means it's doubtful that he will be able to play again this season."

Nelson, yet to make his senior debut for Sunderland, arrived on loan on the last day of the January transfer window and made four appearances for Dave Jones' side.