Collins in race to be fit for Pools

Hartlepool defender Sam Collins is hoping to prove his fitness in time for the npower League One clash at Tranmere.

The centre-half has been struggling with a calf injury and could face a late fitness test. Teenager Jack Baldwin could return to the starting line-up if Collins fails to make it. Striker James Poole has recovered from the thigh and hamstring injuries that have kept him sidelined for the last month, but will not be risked against Rovers. Fellow forward James Brown is still out with a groin injury and both Colin Nish and Colin Larkin (both knee) are unavailable, so teenagers Luke James and Ryan Noble, the latter on loan from Sunderland, are expected to resume their partnership up front. Pools boss Neale Cooper has no other injury or suspension worries as his side, in 13th place, bid to climb into the top half of the table.