Hartlepool were the first team to beat Shrewsbury back in September – today’s away side recorded a 2-0 win at Victoria Park.

Manager Mickey Mellon, has admitted he needs to offload some of his fringe players, before recruiting any new signings. That process has already begun – midfielder Anthony Griffith has signed for League Two rivals Carlisle United on a free transfer. The Montserrat international only made six appearances since joining Town last summer. Aaron Wildig, could take his place on the bench.

Nathanial Knight-Percival is suspended, after seeing red in the 0-0 draw against Luton last time out. Cameron Gayle, could slot in at the heart of defence. Scott Vernon may replace Akpa-Akpro in attack. Grant may start. Otherwise, Town remained unchanged from the draw at Kenilworth Road.

Shrewsbury and Chelsea, are the only teams in all four divisions to remain unbeaten at home. Hartlepool have not recorded a victory at Shrewsbury since a 3-1 win back in August 2002.

Former West Ham striker Marlon Harewood is in contention, the burly front man has served a three match ban for his dismissal against Mansfield on Boxing Day.

Lewis Hawkins was suspended for the 2-0 win against Cheltenham, but is now back in the fold. Hartlepool are likely to name the same eleven that beat the Robins last week. The Pools are rock bottom of League Two, seven points behind Carlisle in 22nd place.

Possible Line Ups:

Shrewsbury Town (3-5-2)
1. Leutwiler, 5. Ellis, 6. Goldson, 12. Gayle, 11. Lawrence, 4. Woods, 14. Wesolowski, 24. Grant, 3. Demetriou, 9. Collins, 10. Vernon

Subs:
2. Grandison, 15. Wildig, 19. Mangan, 21. Halstead, 22. Clark, 26. Akpa-Akpro, 35. Ginnelly

Hartlepool United: (4-4-2)
1. Flinders, 2. Austin, 20. Jones, 26. Harrison, 21. Duckworth, 7. Franks, 14. Woods, 31. Tshibola, 11. Compton, 29. Bingham, 17. Fenwick

Subs:
3.Holden, 4. Bates, 8. Walker, 9. Harewood, 13. Maxted, 16. Featherstone, 28. Hawkins

Article by: Ryan Hillback