Hartlepool United are close to bringing in defender Andrew Boyce on a short-term deal.

The 25-year-old has been told that he can go out on loan by Scunthorpe United boss Mark Robins.

Boyce, who made 34 appearances for the Iron last season, has yet to feature for the club this campaign.

Speaking after his side's 3-0 defeat at Wigan Athletic, Robins told reporters: "We looked at the situation on its merits and the questions posed and we thought it was the right thing to do for him and us.

"Hopefully he will get some decent games in during the 28 days and under the terms of the agreement he will come back to us after that time."

Boyce has also previously played for Gainsborough Trinity, Lincoln City and Grimsby Town.