Here’s a look at some of the areas Phillips might be targeting:
5. At least two wingers
One of the first things Phillips did upon his arrival in January was change his side's shape in an attempt to add genuine width to his new team. However, injury-hit and generally uninspiring loan spells from Courtney Senior, Otis Khan and Brennan Dickenson have hamstrung the Pools boss to an extent, leaving Joe Grey the only man in his squad capable of providing real pace out wide. It seems all but certain that Phillips will look for at least a couple of wingers with pace to allow Pools to get in behind and stretch sides next season. Photo: Mark Fletcher and Getty Images
6. Leaders and characters
The signings of Tom Parkes and Luke Waterfall, as well as the earlier return of skipper Nicky Featherstone, have made a marked difference to how Pools respond when they're on the back foot. Phillips will probably be hoping he'll have all three available to him again next season, with the two defenders both set to stay, but the National League is not for the faint hearted and so the Pools boss will be looking to recruit as many players with level heads and leadership qualities as possible. Photo: Frank Reid
7. One or two loans from Sunderland or elsewhere
Few would argue that Pools have used too many loan players this season, although it's also worth noting that injuries have forced the club's hand to an extent and the temporary deals are low cost and low risk. Pools have had indifferent results when borrowing from the local talent pool in recent years but Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips, scorer of 30 goals in a single Premier League season for the Black Cats, must surely be first in line to take his pick of youngsters deemed ready for a taste of senior football. Photo: Mark Fletcher