PIRATES boss Matt Ford has made a sensational swoop to bring back Antonio Lindback after a 10-year Poole hiatus.

The Rio Rocket has been confirmed as a replacement for injured Hans Andersen ahead of next week's Elite League play-offs.

Swedish GP star Lindback comes in on a 7.00 average having been assessed following a nine-year absence from British speedway, his last foray on these shores being a largely unsuccessful spell at Belle Vue in 2007.

Lindback is a terrace favourite at Wimborne Road having claimed Elite League titles with Poole in 2003 and 2004. He is currently eighth in the Grand Prix standings.

Boss Ford told the Echo: "Rule 16.3.4.1 says you can have a seven-day window to replace a long-term injured rider for the play-offs, which is what we are doing to bring Antonio in.

"Timing wise it's perfect and it's a dream for me to bring Anton back. I never thought we'd get the chance again."

Pirates look almost certain to face Wolves in the semi-finals, with the first leg at Wimborne Road on Wednesday. That clash would feature four of the current world top-10 in Chris Holder, Lindback, world champion Tai Woffinden and Swede Freddie Lindgren.

FULL STORY IN TOMORROW'S ECHO