JOHN Hughes wants to get to work on reshaping his Hartlepool United squad - and he can't wait to get stuck into the task.

While players and managers head off on their end of season holidays, and clubs announce their retained lists this week, there's still a lot of arranging to be done at Victoria Park.

With around a dozen of his charges uncertain over their immediate futures, Hughes has yet been unable to put firm plans in place.

And it is understood the players are in the same situation, with officials yet to enter talks or arrangements with those whose deals run out at the end of next month - and a number of those in question are now on holiday.

The club always waits until the end of the season before discussing terms, but four days since the campaign ended with a 2-2 draw at Crawley, there's little sign of imminent progress or news of a retained list.

Hughes admitted: "There's a lot of work to be done and hopefully we can do that and give the fans what they deserve - a right good football team.

"But you have to look at expectations and keep things right, League Two is a hard division to get out of. No different to Scotland, well-organised teams, good footballer and we know what we are up against. Bits and pieces will be put in place to give it our best shot.''

Hughes will very shortly be off on holiday with his family and, while relishing the chance to get away and relax, his phone won't be off as he hopes to enter detailed talks with his transfer targets.

"When I'm not around the game and in the summer I miss the game,'' he admitted. "I'm grateful and thankful to my missus and the family as they understand, but I don't think she's ever watched a game of football - she's more concerned with her family.

"She lets me get on with watching football and taking in games every night of the week. I'm sure after a week or so of a break she will be ready for me to get back out on the football pitch.''