Hartlepool United v Sunderland: Hignett names all four new signings

Toto Nsiala was at the heart of the defence with the attacking trio of Padraig Amond, Lewis Alessandra and Nicky Deverdics providing the offensive threat.

There was no place for last season's skipper, Billy Paynter, who was on a 10-strong bench. Matthew Bates led the side.

Sunderland named a powerful starting XI, with Jermain Defoe spearheading the attack.

Pools: Carson, Richards, Nsiala, Bates, Carroll, Featherstone, Laurent, Woods, Deverdics, Alessandra, Amond.

Subs: Bartlett, Magnay, Nearney, Harrison, Donnelly, Green, Hawkins, Thomas, Orrell, Paynter, Oates.

Sunderland XI, looks decent: Mannone, Jones, Van aanholt, Kabol, Kone, Cattermole, Lems, Rodwell, Defoe, Khazri, Borini.

Referee: Tony Harrington