Pools are back on home soil following their warm weather training camp in Portugal in which they suffered 2-0 defeat to Scottish side Hibernian.
And Pools boss Hartley has re-emphasised the need to bring in further reinforcements to bolster his squad before the season kicks off at Walsall at the end of the month.
But as things stand, how would Pools line up at the Banks’s Stadium currently?
Here, at The Mail, we look at what would make up Hartley's current best XI if the season were to start today.
1. Pete Jameson
Jameson will compete with Joel Dixon for the No.1 shirt but may hold the advantage having earned promotion with Pools boss John Askey during their time at York City. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
2. Dan Dodds
Despite the club suffering relegation, Dodds, for the most part, impressed following his arrival in the January transfer window and is likely to be a key player in 2023-24. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
3. Euan Murray
Murray was brought back into the squad by John Askey and showed signs of improvement last season before injury ruled him out of the final few games. The Scotsman will likely have done enough to establish himself as one of Askey's first choices in defence as things stand. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
4. Alex Lacey
Lacey is coming back from a long-term shoulder injury but could find himself in contention for a starting spot in the National League. (Credit: Michael Driver | MI News) Photo: Michael Driver