Chris Turner and his team set off from The Vic early this morning for the long trek down to Exeter.

And the Director of Sport knows that after the challenge of the long journey, his side face another difficult task in the form of The Grecians,

"We've had Exeter watched and we know it will be a tough game," he told Pools Player.

"The twice we've seen them at home they've been unlucky not to win so it will be hard for us, we know that.

"We've been keeping a close eye on the players in training to try and assess their sharpness because that has been a factor at times when we've played three times in a week.

"In the past we haven't been able to change things to combat that but now we have a larger squad and can switch things around to give us some fresh legs if required."

And Turner has moved to thank those supporters who are planning on making the mammoth journey to the English Riviera this weekend.

In a season when Pools will top the 10,000 mile barrier on away travel, the 700-mile round trip to St James' Park is as arduous as they come.

"We know it's a long journey for the fans and it's difficult so anyone who is going we really appreciate your support."