Chris Turner has confirmed that James Brown will play some part in Pools' latest pre season friendly at Gateshead this evening (7.30pm kick-off).

The striker has been out of action since November after rupturing his cruciate ligament but, after undergoing reconstructive surgery, the 22-year-old has fought his way back to fitness in good time.

And after completing an intense period of work on the training ground in recent weeks, a cautious Turner is finally ready to hand him his first taste of match action.

"He'll play half an hour tonight if we feel it's right," Turner explained.

"James has been very determined during his rehabilitation, while a lot of credit must also go to our Physio team James Haycock, Alex Seward and Ian Gallagher.

"It's James' second major setback but he's been very professional during his treatment and recuperation; now it's important we're careful with him and ease him back.

"Sometimes as a player you can get over-zealous on your way back from a long-term injury so that's why we've just held the reins on him and ensured he had a solid three weeks of hard training.

"He's looked extremely good in training and from I've seen he's ready and raring to go so it's great news for everyone because he's an exciting player."

See an exclusive video interview with James Brown in widescreen right now on the new Pools Player.