HARTLEPOOL United boss Chris Turner is hoping his players will enjoy the magic of the FA Cup today and cast a spell over Scunthorpe United.

Pool face a difficult test in the first round with a trip to their third division rivals - a side they lost to 3-0 in the league only two weeks ago.

But Turner is positive as he looks for a change in his club's FA Cup fortunes.

Pool have not reached the third round since 1993 and have only reached the second round twice in seven years, while they have not beaten Scunthorpe in their three cup meetings.

But these facts do not deter Turner, who said: "This is such a special competition and its magic can inspire everyone.

"It doesn't matter who you are playing against, whether it's Arsenal or a non-league side, everyone can grab some glory.

"It is the quickest way to get yourself known as a team or player because everyone knows about this competition.

"That's why I hope my players can respond and get themselves in the spotlight.

"It's going to be a difficult game at Scunthorpe but I keep saying that there's no team in our division that frightens us.

"We lost to them in the league a couple of weeks ago, but individual mistakes cost us that day. The scoreline flattered them and I think we have a good chance.

"We know we are not going to win the Cup but we want to go as far as we can."

Turner will have to reshuffle his side today, with new signing Mark Tinkler suspended and on-loan defender Steve Baker ruled out by the FA due to a seven-day registration rule even though he has been at the club for the past two months.

He was given permission by Boro to play but FA rules meant Pool had to have permisson from the player's club seven days in advance.

Club captain Michael Barron is set to step in for his first start of the season after a lengthy absence with a knee injury, while striker Kevin Henderson is also back in the squad after almost a month out with knee trouble and another absentee for most of the season, Ian Clark, could get a starting spot.

"The players coming back may not be 100 per cent fit and some might see it as a risk if I play them," admitted Turner.

"But sometimes you have to gamble and see where it takes you.

"It is disappointing losing Mark and Steve, especially Steve with this FA ruling.

"It's just diabolical and a pathetic ruling when you consider we've had the lad here for seven weeks, but there's nothing we can do about it now and have to get on with it.

"It's great to have Micky and Hendo back.

"Hendo has improved as a player in the 12 months since I came here and had a fantastic start to the season with his goals, while you can always depend on Micky."

Centre-back Barron is ready and willing to do his duty for Pool as he said: "It's just great to be back playing again.

"This is going to be a big game for everyone and I want to play even though I know I am not fully match-fit.

"I played for the reserves in midweek and I am really looking forward to the cup game. They beat us well in the league, but the cup is altogether different and anything can happen."