Dylan Purvis has been handed squad number 28 and is set to be included in the travelling party bound for Southend on Friday morning.

The young defender has impressed the Pools hierarchy with some whole-hearted displays in both full-back positions for the Youth Team and Reserves this campaign.

Purvis only turns eighteen next Friday but Chris Turner is set to give him the perfect early birthday present by taking him with the squad to Roots Hall this weekend.

"Dylan's a player who has made excellent progress this season," Turner explained.

"He has shown his ability for the Youth Team and also when he's stepped up to the Reserves so we're looking forward to having him with us.

"Coming with the First Team on a long trip like this will give him invaluable experience for the future," he added.