Hartlepool v Scunthorpe preview

Team news for Monday's League One clash between Hartlepool and Scunthorpe at Victoria Park.

Hartlepool striker James Poole could return to the squad following a hamstring strain. Poole missed Saturday's defeat at Sheffield United, but has made good progress in his recovery and could give new boss Neale Cooper, overseeing his first home game in his second spell in charge, an extra attacking option. But Cooper may be forced to give Sam Collins a late fitness test after the defender sustained a foot injury at Bramall Lane. Teenage pair Jack Baldwin and Luke James are hoping to retain their places in the squad. Defender Baldwin, 18, has started the last three games in central midfield, while James, 17, stepped off the substitutes' bench in each of those matches. Another defender, Stephen Wright, is still struggling with an Achilles injury that has kept him out of the last four games, while strikers Colin Nish and Colin Larkin are still sidelined following respective knee surgery. Pools are chasing their first home win since a 3-0 victory over Bury on September 17, having lost their last eight games at Victoria Park. Meanwhile, Scunthorpe skipper Cliff Byrne is hoping to stave off a groin injury in time for the trip to Hartlepool. The Irish defender has been dogged by the problem for the last month and was forced out of Saturday's home draw with Chesterfield after suffering a recurrence. But Scunthorpe's quest for a first win since the end of October will be boosted by the return of defender Eddie Nolan from suspension. Sam Togwell stepped in at left-back for Nolan against Chesterfield and could switch to right-back if Byrne fails to make it. Another defender, Paul Reid, may be in contention for his first appearance in six weeks after a groin problem. Goalkeeper Josh Lillis (knee), striker Matt Godden (hip) and midfielders Damien Mozika (ankle) and Michael Collins (Achilles) remain long-term absentees.