Back in the 70's Manchester City were walking the league until they decided to sign a certain Rodney Marsh, needless to say their rich vein of form came to an end and subsequently didn't win the title.
More recently Kevin Keegans Newcastle side were running away with the league 14 points clear at one stage, then they decided to sighn a certain Tino Asprilla, needles to say this co-incided with the side and inclusion of Tino in the starting eleven and subsequently The Mags failed to go on to win the title.
At the moment Pools are flying the last thing they want is disruption of a winning side, so personally do we really need a Richie Barker? Let's try our hardest to land Duffy and Monkhouse!
only worrying thing i see is richie barker doesnt seem to want to leave mansfield and is being forced out. will he still try his hardest for any new club

if he doesnt want to be there
PS 9 straight wins, and not conceding for in 8!! I still can't believe it..what an unbelievable run!