How will Hartlepool United adapt to Gavan Holohan suspension? Dave Challinor drops selection hints with Luke Molyneux, Josh Hawkes and Gus Mafuta waiting for opportunity

One big miss will be midfielder Gavan Holohan – who is suspended following his red card in last weekend’s defeat at Barnet.

The Irishman has been a key player for Pools under Challinor with eight goals and six assists so far this season. But the United manager is viewing the suspension as an opportunity for someone else to take and impress.

And there are plenty waiting for their chance.

“Gav is obviously gutted, but with a mistake comes an opportunity for somebody else,” Challinor said.

“Whether you look at a midfield area and see whether that’s Gus [Mafuta], Josh Hawkes, Luke Molyneux or playing with two strikers, whatever that might be, there are players in there who are ready to come in.

“While they’re a good group and want the best for each other, someone’s disappointment ultimately opens the door for someone else to grab a place.

“Hopefully we will make the right selection and the player that comes in makes the most of the opportunity. Gav all of a sudden has things on his plate to try and get back into the team which is good because you need that competition.

“We’re getting to a point where people are looking over their shoulders in the right way knowing that there are threats behind them so if they don’t perform, someone is ready to come in and take their place.”