HARTLEPOOL United’s injury problems continue to mount as Middlesbrough loanee Isaac Fletcher is the latest to be ruled out for the final game following another training ground injury.

The teenage midfielder looks set to return to his parent club prematurely after dislocating his shoulder.

Having secured their League Two safety this season, Pools have had to contend with mounting injury problems as they see out the campaign which has become a source of frustration for the manager.

Speaking about Fletcher’s injury, Graeme Lee told BBC Radio Tees Sport: “Unfortunately, in the last bit of training yesterday, he fell on his shoulder and dislocated his shoulder. We’ve talked about the freak injuries.”

The 19-year-old has made 15 appearances and scored one goal during his time at the Suit Direct Stadium and was set to feature again at the weekend. Lee continued: “Fletch was starting today (against Scunthorpe United). We had to bring Bryn (Morris) straight in after having two days of training. He had to go straight into the team.

“It’s where we are at the moment with the bodies but it was an opportunity for Fletch. I felt it would have been the ideal game for Fletch today but unfortunately it’s a dislocation. We want to wish him a speedy recovery because he’s a great lad and a great pro.”

Lee could only have five substitutes on the bench for their 1-1 draw against already relegated Scunthorpe where Nicky Featherstone scored from the penalty spot.

Pools will continue to assess defenders Neill Byrne and Gary Liddle and midfielder Mark Shelton ahead of their final game of the season against Colchester United this weekend.