Hartlepool v Southampton preview

Larkin ruled out for Pools; Murty pushing for Saints start

Last updated: 24th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Hartlepool v Southampton preview

Murty: Pushing for start

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Hartlepool are likely to be without Colin Larkin for the visit of Southampton.

The winger was substituted after 64 minutes of Saturday's 2-1 defeat against Huddersfield suffering with a hamstring strain and is extremely doubtful to face Saints.

He was replaced by Leon McSweeney, who himself has been struggling with a foot injury lately, and the former Stockport player could get the nod from the start.

Otherwise, director of Sport Chris Turner has no other new injury or suspension concerns following the clash at the Galpharm Stadium.

Full-back Steve Haslam continues to recover from his hernia operation while young striker Matty Tymon also remains on the sidelines with ankle ligament damage.

Saints news

Joseph Mills has been ruled out of Southampton's long trip north to face Hartlepool in League One on Tuesday night after picking up an illness.

The young defender, who was on the bench for Saturday's 2-2 draw against Norwich, will not travel to Victoria Park.

Experienced midfielder Paul Wotton was ruled out at the weekend after suffering a knock in training, and he will be checked over.

Graeme Murty made his long-awaited return as a substitute after three months out with a knee injury and will be pushing for a start at right-back.

Midfielder Lloyd James has been deputising in defence and could be pushed forward into his preferred position if Murty goes in from the off.

Manager Alan Pardew has an otherwise fully-fit squad to choose from.

Southampton 11/8, Hartlepool 15/8, Draw 12/5