Chris Turner remains without injured duo Ritchie Humphreys (Achilles) and Ben Clark (hernia) ahead of tonight's friendly clash with Gateshead (7.30pm kick-off).

As well as that, the Director of Sport is battling against the usual spate of knocks and niggles that are usual during a tough pre season campaign.

Gary Liddle will continue at centre-back alongside Peter Hartley, while Dan Smith is given another chance to impress in the left-back role.

Alan Power and Jonny Rowell will combine in the centre of midfield, while Leon McSweeney will be further advanced and play up front with Denis Behan.

James Brown will start on the substitutes' bench but is expected to be given half an hour if all goes well.

Pools can expect to come up against some familiar faces this evening as Gateshead currently have Jim Provett, Carl Jones, Mark Robinson and Phil Turnbull on their books.

The Tynesiders have no injury concerns ahead of the game and will be looking to complete their pre season programme without defeat after winning four and drawing one of their previous friendlies.

Pools: Flinders, Sweeney, Liddle, Hartley, Smith, Jones, Power, Rowell, Monkhouse, Behan, McSweeney.