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.
But as things stand, how would Pools line up at the Banks’s Stadium currently?
5. Edon Pruti
Both Pruti and Lacey will face competition from new signing Kieran Burton in defence but Pruti may get the nod at this stage. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
6. David Ferguson
Ferguson is set to be John Askey's go-to man this season with Nicky Featherstone's contract having expired. The full-back took on the role of captain last season in Featherstone's absence and could be handed the honour on a permanent basis. (Photo: Mike Morese | MI News) Photo: Mike Morese
7. Kieran Wallace
With Nicky Featherstone out of contract, Pools moved to bring in Wallace from Mansfield Town with the 28-year-old likely to start in the holding midfield role having worked under John Askey previously. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images) Photo: Lewis Storey
8. Callum Cooke
Cooke is likely to be a key player for Hartlepool at National League level. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher