Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor reflects on 'good week' training ahead of Solihull Moors match with players returning

After last week’s goalless draw at Barnet, Pools have been working hard on the training ground in preparation for the match at Damson Park as they look to continue their unbeaten away record in the National League this season.

And manager Dave Challinor has a good idea of what to expect when his side face the Moors.

“It’s been a good week, it was important we recovered from a long trip last Tuesday,” he said.

“It’s been good and allowed us to prepare in more detail for the opposition which we've done.

"We've got a clear understanding to what we're up against – I watched them against Morecambe, it backed up what we knew anyway with the reports we’d compiled. To see them live just reinforces what their strengths are.

“We use the analysis stuff as best we can and this week has allowed us to stretch out that process and split the week where we can look at what we want to do out of possession and what we need to do in possession.”

Mason Bloomfield is expected to return to the matchday squad on Tuesday evening following an ankle injury but Luke Williams is unlikely to play a part.

Gary Liddle (groin) remains a long-term absentee.

“We’ve got a few niggles but Mason will be fine, he’s trained this week so I don’t see any problems that would prevent him being involved barring something happening between now and kick-off,” Challinor added.

“Luke has been on the grass, he probably won’t be involved but I envisage that the next time we train on Thursday or probably Friday, he’ll be back training with the squad providing there are no complications with him.

"It’s a tough time of the year with fixtures and it’s important we get everybody ready for the number of games we’ve got and it’s important we’ve got the players available that we feel we can pick to go and win a game and not be restricted.

"If there are any potential issues, we’ve got to be really careful because we’re not in a position with the size of our squad to have more players out.”

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