HARTLEPOOL United are likely to make changes tonight in the first round of the LDV Vans Trophy.

Pool travel to Scunthorpe and, with a number of players carrying knocks from the weekend defeat at Nottingham Forest, boss Martin Scott is ready to give his squad players a chance.

Ritchie Humphreys limped away from the City Ground and Steven Turnbull, Antony Sweeney, Jon Daly and Michael Proctor all needed treatment yesterday. Defender Micky Nelson is suspended after his red card on Saturday.

That means Mark Tinkler, Ben Clark, Eifion Williams and Thomas Butler could all be recalled, as well as defenders John Brackstone and Darren Craddock.

Last season, Pool's first round tie ended with a thrilling penalty shoot-out win over Hull and Scott is looking to the competition to improve his side's fortunes.

Pool lie fourth bottom with just three League One wins and Scott admitted: "There's a few knocks, so we will have to make changes, but this is an important game.

"It will open the door for other players to stake their claim.

"It's important to win the game because winning is a great habit to get into and I won't be taking the game lightly.

"Our away record has been good so far, the players will be up for it and we will look to the game to build on for the weekend's home game.''

Micky Barron could play for the Pool reserve side in their Durham Challenge Cup tie at Spennymoor. Only players who have not featured in the first team matchday 16 for the past 14 days are eligible.

Home central defender Andy Butler will play, despite a poor run of form and former Sunderland midfielder Ritchie Ryan will be recalled by Brian Laws.

Admission tonight is £1 for children and £10 adults (£6 concessions).

Read more about Hartlepool here.