Morecambe v Hartlepool United: Team news, Billy Paynter doubtful for Pools

Paynter is the most doubtful of three doubts for the match at the Globe Arena.

The 15-goal striker limped off in the 1-0 defeat at Carlisle United after feeling his hamstring early in the second half at Brunton Park.

Given the nature of the injury, it would require a remarkable recovery for the 31-year-old to feature either on Saturday or Tuesday’s visit to Notts County.

“Billy felt his hamstring the other night,” said Hignett.

“Buster will assess that and then we’ll see where he is for the weekend.

“At the minute I would say it was touch and go.”

Hignett praised the captain who has been instrumental in the side’s seven-match unbeaten run which has re-energised the season.

“Billy has been another one who has been fantastic for me,” said the manager.

“He’s a leader, he’s great in the dressing room and he scores goals, he’ll be a big miss.”

Nathan Thomas (chest infection) and Michael Woods (dead leg) both missed the midweek defeat.

Thomas was off today as he tries to recover from his ailment while Woods hoped to train.

“Nathan has a really bad infection,” said Hignett. “He went to see the doctor and suffers from asthma. He’s struggling a bit, but could be in tomorrow for training.”

Woods would almost certainly have started against the Cumbrians but for his injury sustained late in the 2-1 win over Mansfield last Saturday.