WITH the new season starting a week tomorrow, Hartlepool United play their final pre-season games in the next 24 hours.

Pools take on Middlesbrough’s Under-23s at Victoria Park this evening, before going to Whitley Bay tomorrow.

All of his squad – and a handful of trialists – will get a run out over the course of the two games.

Boss Craig Harrison has signed eight new players this summer – and he still wants a couple more.

He admitted: “I'd like to get another two in in some shape or form.

"Whether they are permanent signings or loans I feel we could do with one or two more in key areas.

"We have the bulk of our squad already in but we might need a couple of extras."

Harrison has refreshed and rebuilt the squad at Pools, following the demoralising nature of last season it was essential it was sparked up with new recruits.

With only five substitutes permitted in the National League next season, as opposed to the seven in the Football League, Harrison has plenty of strong competition.

And that’s what he wants – demanding everything from his players to prove they are worthy of a spot.

"I hope there’s no complacency - and I hope people don't think that there is otherwise they are in for a shock,’’ he said.

"They can't take their foot off the accelerator in training or in games. People should not expect to just play.

"I want to create a culture of people working hard in training and working hard for their shirt.

"I want a culture of no sulkers, those not in the team must work hard and when they get their chance they take it.’’

Pools have had two tough pre-season games, losing by a single goal to both Sunderland and St Johnstone.

Harrison said: "Don't get me wrong, the matches against the Billingham Towns and Dunstons were great, it was brilliant to get everyone together.

"But games like, Sunderland, St Johnstone, Middlsbrough are great.

"The Boro Under 23 game will be great, they'll be fit, lads trying to show Garry Monk they should be in the first team, there will probably squad lads playing.

"It’s a run of three very good friendlies which will get us ready for the season."

Admission tonight (7.30 kick-off) is £5 and £3 concessions.