Cambridge-Hartlepool United: Brad Walker to return for Pools

Brad Walker in action against Exeter City. Picture by FRANK REID

The midfielder-turned- defender missed Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Notts County with an ankle injury. But the 20-year-old should resume tonight.

Walker has been outstanding following his transfer from the centre of midfield to the heart of the defence, forging a great understanding with Scott Harrison.

There will be no return for Matthew Bates who boss Dave Jones explains is “struggling” with ankle trouble, while Billy Paynter (Achilles) also remains sidelined.

“We need to wait and see with Billy,” added Jones. “He’s had his course of injections and we need to see how he is.”

Walker’s return will allow Nicky Featherstone to move back into midfield after performing well in a back three alongside Harrison and LiamDonnelly.

Featherstone did move into midfield as the match wore at Notts County wore on, with Harrisonand Donnelly at centre-half with Kenton Richardson and sub Nicky Deverdics as the full-backs.

But Jones would prefer the back four of Richardson, Harrison, Walker and Donnelly, with Featherstone pulling the strings in midfield.

Pools certainly played some good football at Meadow Lane and Jones will want a repeat of that against the U’s