Pools boss Bates admits pair may be left behind

The midfielders are likely to be left behind when Pools head for Bromley tomorrow ahead of Saturday’s game on a 4G pitch, which could mean a start for Connor Newton.

Woods missed Tuesday’s defeat at Wrexham with an ankle injury, while McLaughlin has taken ill and sits out Thursday’s training session.

Boss Matthew Bates, speaking at this morning’s press conference at East Durham College in Peterlee, said: “Woodsy has been running this morning, jogging before the lads started training, but has been still struggling a bit, but he is touch and go for Saturday with us travelling Friday.’’

Pools will be without Andrew Davies for the next three games after his dismissal for violent conduct on Tuesday.

And, while midfielder Luke Williams is still absent, Bates was able to offer an update on his progress from a knee operation.

He said: “Luke sees the specialist on Friday, a general check-up and see where go and we hope he’s not too far away.’’