Future in safe hands - Turner

After suffering play-off woe last week when Pool lost 5-1 to Blackpool over two legs, the Pool boss freed nine players as he plots for next season.

Striker Craig Midgley and central defenders Gary Strodder and Neil Aspin were among those handed free transfers, but the Pool chief is confident of success next season.

In March, Turner swooped for Jermaine Easter and Gordon Simms, two players he nurtured under his wing during his time as youth team supremo at Wolves.

And now Turner is looking for the pair to make a big impact when the new campaign kicks-off on August 11.

"So far, people have only seen fleeting glimpses of them,'' said Turner. "But they both have great potential and I'm sure the supporters will get to see more of them.

"Gordon has been called up for the Northern Ireland under-21 team since he came here, but he knew when I brought him here that he was behind the likes of Gary Strodder, Neil Aspin and Graeme Lee in the pecking order.

"He knows he has been signed for next season, but we are happy he is already here.

Easter was red carded for a foul on Blackpool defender Brian Reid minutes after being introduced as a substitute in Wednesday's second-leg reverse, but Turner said: "Jermaine is quick and very lively and I am sure he will learn from it.''

Pool, yesterday confirmed a trip to Norway as part of their pre-season campaign. Turner will lead his squad to Scandinavia for the second time for games with Brann Bergen and Fana.

Pool fly out on Friday, July 20 and return on Wednesday, July 25.

With the Victoria Park pitch being dug up, there will be no friendlies on home soil. Pool will go to Billingham Town on July 18, Berwick Rangers on July 28 and Morcambe on August 4.

They will also have a side in the Century FM and Gateshead Festival of Football on Thursday 2 and Friday, August 3 at the International Stadium.

Season ticket holders have been kept at the same amount as last season. Applications can be made from Friday, May 25 until Saturday, June 16.