Morecambe vs Hartlepool United FC preview - Edwards blow for Shrimps

Morecambe are without full-back Ryan Edwards for the visit of Hartlepool to the north-west coast.

The ex-Blackburn trainee triggered an automatic one-match suspension when he saw red in the closing stages of the Shrimps' 1-0 victory over Luton, with the dramatic winner coming after he had departed.

Edwards' absence could force boss Jim Bentley to consider a change of formation, while the versatile Alan Goodall is likely to come into consideration for his start in four fixtures.

Apart from long-term absentee Barry Roche (shoulder), the Shrimps' squad is in rude health.

Hartlepool midfielder Tommy Miller is closing in on his first appearance since the end of October following a long-term calf injury.

Miller played the full 90 minutes for the reserves against Gateshead in midweek and should soon be pushing for his first appearance under manager Ronnie Moore.

Defender Stuart Parnaby played 45 minutes in the same match as he works his way back from knee surgery but is not expected to feature.

Defender Matthew Bates (thigh) and striker Scott Fenwick (ankle) remain sidelined, while midfielder Michael Woods (ankle) is out for the rest of the season.