Goalkeeper trains despite finger injury

The goalkeeper suffered a broken finger in last weekend’s win over Cheltenham – and was denied the chance to make his international debut for Northern Ireland in midweek as a result.

Carson has trained with Pools today and boss Craig Hignett and the club’s medical staff will decide on his availability depending on any reaction.

The Pools’ boss, speaking at this morning’s press conference at the club’s training ground in Durham, said: “His finger was in a bad way when he came off on Saturday. He has been and had treatment, has been away with Northern Ireland and come back.

“He has had a scan and he has no major damage. It is just a real sore one. We will have to see how it goes.’’

If Carson is not fit, then Adam Bartlett will deputise. He made a stunning save seconds in the second-half last weekend to preserve Pools’ one-goal lead.

And Hignett said: “Barts made an outstanding save. It was the only real save he had to make in the game.

“It was a world class save.

“I am confident, whether Trev makes it or not, that Barts is a keeper who can not only deputise but also keep his place.’’

There will, however, be no return to Doncaster for former Rovers’ skipper and caretaker boss Rob Jones.

He’s not played since mid-September because of a hip injury and won’t be involved at the weekend.