Midfielder Josh Hawkes a doubt for Dagenham & Redbridge clash as Dave Challinor assesses Hartlepool United injuries

The 20-year-old was subbed off at half-time at Harrogate Town last weekend after picking up a knock during an impressive first half display at the CNG Stadium.

Gavan Holohan has had his game time limited in recent weeks due to a persisting lower back issue but could be in line for a return to the matchday squad.

Aaron Cunningham (knee) remains out but will be hoping to be back in contention by the new year.

Luke James (groin) arrived at training on Thursday morning with crutches and is expected to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines while Luke Williams (hamstring) and Luke Molyneux (foot) are still recovering from their respective injuries as has been standard so far this season.

On his side’s injury situation, United manager Dave Challinor said: “We took Josh Hawkes off at Harrogate, it wasn’t a huge issue but we didn’t want to risk him if he was feeling something.

“He’s trained this week, we’ve integrated him in bits and not other bits so hopefully he’ll be okay.

“With the surface and the way the weather has been, we’ll have to be a bit careful.

“Aaron Cunningham will miss out but he’s a matter of being days or a week away opposed to anything longer.

“It’s all the Lukes who are the long term ones! Luke Molyneux is probably impressing the most out of them at the moment but even with him, I don’t expect him to be back before the end of January and I’ll accept that.

“If I can get him back 100% fit and able to complete 90-minutes by the end of January then I’ll take that and anything sooner would be a great bonus.”

Hartlepool have bolstered their defensive options with the loan signing of Gary Liddle on a one month loan from Walsall.

The 33-year-old will is available for selection for Saturday’s match against Dagenham and is expected to be named as part of the matchday squad.