Late tests for strike duo
Hartlepool strikers James Poole and Charlie Wyke both face late fitness tests ahead of Friday's home game with MK Dons.
Poole sustained a knock to his leg in the recent defeat at Oldham and missed last Saturday's home draw with Walsall, while Middlesbrough loanee Wyke has been struggling with a heel problem that has restricted him to bench duty in the last two matches.
Manager John Hughes was given a boost this week as Jack Baldwin completed 45 minutes for the reserves.
The teenage defender had been expected to miss the rest of the season after damaging medial knee ligaments earlier this month.
Another teenager, striker Luke James, staked his claim for a recall this week with a hat-trick for the reserves.
Bottom club Pools are chasing their first win in seven as they bid to keep their survival hopes alive.
Dean Bowditch and Daniel Powell will be fit for MK Dons.
Striker Bowditch (groin) was a doubt ahead of last Saturday's game against Colchester while winger Powell (hamstring) would have missed the trip to Essex, which was postponed due to snow.
Luke Chadwick has also resumed training following a hip flexor problem and the winger could come back into the squad.
Goalkeeper David Martin (back) and captain Dean Lewington (knee) look set to remain on the sidelines, though.
Izale McLeod could join them. He is a new concern after sustaining an injury in training this week and the striker will be assessed ahead of the game.
One player who will definitely miss out is Antony Kay. The centre-half will begin a three-match suspension following his red card in the defeat at Crewe on March 19.
Source: PA
