BUOYANT manager Lee Clark today hailed the influence of Steve Black on Town and promised: “He’s the best in the business.”

Performance coach Black – known nationally as the friend and mentor of England rugby union star Jonny Wilkinson – helps keep Clark’s squad sharp both physically and mentally.

He’s been a guiding light for the players as they’ve pieced together a strong League I run into the play-off placings and booked a second-round FA Cup place against Port Vale.

Now, as Town prepare to go unchanged for the sixth successive match against Hartlepool and look ahead to Tuesday’s trip to Swindon, Clark has highlighted the influence of the much-respected Geordie.

“Having a settled side has been huge for us, because the things the players are doing become second nature and partnerships develop,” explained Clark.

“The fact we’ve had few injuries and been able to name an unchanged side is exactly why I appointed Steve Black in the first place – because I knew he was the best in the business.

“With the exception of contact and impact injuries, which you simply can’t legislate for, I knew I wouldn’t be dealing with very many injured players because of Steve’s involvement.

“As a result of all the terrific work he does, I’ve got as many players as possible available for selection and the maximum number we’ve had under treatment on any day has been two – which is unheard of.

“I’ve been at clubs where, by Christmas, we’ve had 13 major operations among the squad.

“So for us to have the injury record we’ve got is a great credit to Steve’s work and, fingers crossed, it will continue for as long as possible.”