Having suffered relegation from the Football League last season there will be plenty of players throughout Hartlepool’s squad keen to make amends as they look to bounce back in the National League and mount an immediate promotion challenge.
Whether it was a season which proved a struggle for form, or a campaign littered with injuries, there are reasons for all in Askey’s squad to knuckle down this pre-season.
The next few weeks could prove crucial to some players when shaping Askey’s opinion of them whilst there will be those eager to impress after completing a move to the Suit Direct Stadium this summer.
And with that in mind, we look at five players who could do with a positive pre-season ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.
5. Joe Grey
It feels like we could be reaching an important season for Grey, never mind just pre-season. The young forward has plenty of potential but has been unable to cement regular game time with Hartlepool over his three years with the club having started less than a third of his total games with the club and only six goals to his name in that time. The 20-year-old has struggled with a number of back injuries which may be of concern and another reason why a strong, consistent, pre-season would be of benefit. Contracted until 2025, Grey could still have a bright future with Hartlepool, but we could be reaching the stage where he needs to kick on following the club’s relegation back to the National League and force his way into Askey’s plans on a regular basis. (Credit: John Cripps | MI News) Photo: John Cripps