Dave Challinor discusses his defensive plan to combat injuries at Hartlepool United ahead of Dover Athletic clash

Kenton Richardson (ankle), Michael Raynes (quad) and Fraser Kerr (back) all picked up injuries over the last two matches while Romoney Crichlow-Noble was recalled from his loan spell by parent club Huddersfield Town on Monday.

But in a case of good timing, Myles Anderson returned from his loan at Aldershot Town this week while Aaron Cunningham also returned to the fold after a spell on the sidelines with an MCL injury.

“We’ve lost three defenders in two games and it does change around quickly and Myles and Aaron come into our thoughts,” Challinor said.

“Whether we play with a three or a back four, we are a little bit short on numbers, we need to look where we’re at because it would be daft to jump into things.

“Lidds [Gary Liddle] has come in and his loan his up after the Stockport game so I need to speak with Darrell [Clarke] at Walsall and see what their thoughts are with him.”

On any upcoming deals, Challinor added: “For us, it’s about putting a plan in place moving forward in terms of short term recruitment to see us through and help us challenge toward the back end of the season.

“Then we look longer term in terms of people who are available now who could save us some of our recruitment during the summer.

“If they’re available and will strengthen us then great.”