Graeme Lee hopeful of a return to the Hartlepool United dugout for Swindon Town clash

The Pools boss missed the trip to Rochdale on Easter Monday having tested positive for COVID-19 late on Sunday evening.

Lee was made to watch Pools’ defeat at home having struggled with symptoms late in the weekend.

But assistant manager Michael Nelson, who took control of first team duties at the Crown Oil Arena, has confirmed Lee is making good progress in his recovery from the virus and has today delivered a negative test.

Lee was absent from Pools’ Maiden Castle training facility this morning but could return to the Suit Direct Stadium tomorrow for the visit of Swindon should he provide another negative test in the morning.

“I believe he’s delivered a negative test this morning, so fingers crossed,” said Nelson.

“He’s a lot better. He’s been very frustrated to be away.”

Asked whether he will be on hand to stand in for Lee once more should the Pools boss not make tomorrow’s game however, Nelson said: “I’ll have to be.

“He’s [Lee] a lot better than he was last Sunday but hopefully he’ll be back in the dugout.

“If not, then myself and Sweens, and the rest of the staff, will carry on the duties as we have been.”

Pools host a Robins side still chasing a play-off spot as they look to end a run of just one win in their last nine games following Monday’s stoppage time defeat at Rochdale.