Adam Clayton and Gary Liddle will take charge of Hartlepool United on an interim basis for Saturday’s National League fixture against Scunthorpe United, following Lee Clark’s departure last weekend.

The experienced duo are focused on ensuring Pools are in the “best possible condition” ahead of the clash at the Attis Arena.

Liddle was appointed First Team coach in February after previously serving as Lead Professional Development Phase Coach within the Club’s Academy setup, while Clayton joined Hartlepool in June, having previously managed Matlock Town.

“It’s been a really good week,” Clayton said. “Being the main voice to the lads is good for me and Lidds – we enjoy it.

“We’ve got a really good group of players. Our job is to get the group in a good mental space going into Saturday, and to try and get the squad in its best-possible condition for whatever’s next.”

Liddle added: “It’s been a while since we’ve had a full week’s worth of training; we’ll take full advantage of that.

“We all know the task in hand this weekend, and we’re aware it’s a tough place to go.

“Scunthorpe are in a bit of a fragile position themselves, so Andy Butler [manager] will certainly have his players at it. All the work will be put in, and we hope to turn the results around.”

Liddle provided an update on the squad’s injury situation, with the positive news that Luke Charman is in contention for a place in the matchday squad this weekend.

Liam Gibson will be unavailable due to a hamstring injury, while Owen Hampson has unfortunately suffered a recurrence of his thigh injury during training.

Corey McKeown, Max Merrick and Max Kouogun remain sidelined as they continue their respective recoveries.