Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor hoping to take advantage of Notts County's depleted squad at Victoria Park

Hartlepool United have five long-term absentees to deal with themselves but will be boosted by the return of Gavan Holohan from suspension.

Notts County centre-back Ben Turner is expected to be sidelined for a couple of months after injuring his calf. Alex Lacey (hip), Zoumana Bakayogo (groin) and Damien McCrory (knee).

Wes Thomas, who netted a brace in the 2-2 draw when the sides last met at Meadow Lane, is suspended. The Magpies did receive a boost with the loan signing of Adam Long from Wigan Athletic.

“At the minute, they’re missing people with suspensions and they’ve got an awful amount of injuries,” Dave Challinor said.

“That will weaken them away from what their strongest 11 is but we can’t do anything about that – hopefully we can take advantage of it.”