Hartlepool United FC vs Tranmere Rovers preview - Double trouble for Pools

Hartlepool are expected to be without both Stuart Parnaby and Michael Duckworth for their home game against Tranmere.

The versatile Parnaby returned from a two-game lay-off due to hamstring trouble to start in last week's home win against Shrewsbury, but was forced out with a recurrence of the problem.

Right-back Duckworth missed out last week due to a similar injury sustained in training on the Friday and is still struggling.

Pools boss Colin Cooper has no other availability issues as his side chase their third league win of the season.

Owain Fon Williams will hope to wrestle back Tranmere's number-one jersey from Peter Brezovan.

Fon Williams missed the 3-2 loss to Accrington because he was away on international duty with Wales but is expected to slot straight in again this weekend.

Striker George Donnelly could come into the mix for his debut having made good progress in training following a slight groin concern.

Defender Liam Ridehalgh (ankle) is three to four weeks away from returning still but West Ham winger Matthias Fanimo is an option to manager Rob Edwards following his arrival on loan on Thursday.