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Clough excited by Baxter

Image: Nigel Clough: High hopes for Baxter

Nigel Clough believes Jose Baxter can provide a missing X-factor for Sheffield Utd after marking his return from injury with a goal.

Baxter grabbed the opener as the Blades secured their passage to the Johnstone's Paint Trophy northern quarter-final by beating Hartlepool 2-1. It was Jamal Campbell-Ryce who was the match-winner, his 82nd-minute strike sealing the win after Michael Duckworth's first goal for Pools had restored parity. But Baxter's name was the one on of the lips of Clough, who is hoping his star man can propel United - currently sitting 11th in the League One table - into the play-off picture. "His was a fine goal that showed what he is capable of," said the boss. "It was a good 45 minutes for him and very important to get him back on the pitch - especially a bit ahead of schedule. "It's going to take him another week or two to get back up to speed but he showed us what we have missed. "He could be (the difference-maker). We can play him in multiple positions. He can play in any of the midfield spots and as a striker as well." The win was the Blades' eighth in their last 11 games and Clough felt it was an important one - especially after Saturday's 3-2 loss to Chesterfield. "It was a good victory and a good enough performance," he said. "We had enough chances to win it quite comfortably. "It's important to win games. We were disappointed to lose Saturday so it's important to get the win. "It's a good habit to get into. The feeling when you leave the ground having lost is not a nice one. "We have had a good run generally but, because of the expectation levels, everyone says it's doom and gloom when you lose." The clash pitted Clough against the club his father Brian started a legendary managerial career. Asked whether he has an affinity with Hartlepool, Clough responded: "Of course. "It's the first time I have managed or played here. It is nice to come and do it eventually. I wish I could have put my boots on, I know that!" Pools fans are looking back on the Clough days with longing eyes presently given manager Colin Cooper resigned on Saturday after his side slipped to the bottom of the Football League. Caretaker boss Sam Collins, who is still registered as a player, confirmed his interest in the role having overseen a vastly improved performance. "I suppose results will dictate my future," he said. "I love this football club and I have been here a long time. "The town is very similar to where I am from: a working-class town where the fans demand hard work from their players. "If I got asked to do the job, would I do it? I would love to because I love the club."

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