LUKE MARSH

@ Marshlukew

Last season was a success. Solidifying our Football League status, earning an FA Cup trip to Crystal Palace and being a kick away from Wembley in the EFL Trophy? We would’ve snapped your hand off for that after promotion. The big talking point is if new signings can help us to kick on in the league. This season will be different because we’ve got a platform – 2021- 22 was all about staying up, as our play- off final victory came in late June and we were playing catch- up in the transfer window, living off scraps. We’re on a level playing field with others now.

Our most underrated player is David Ferguson, instrumental down the left with his crossing. Of all the new deals signed, his was the most important.

Look out for Joe Grey. He scored some key goals in breaking through last year.

Fans think our owner is very careful. Fans often get frustrated by Raj Singh not splashing the cash, then wasting money on things that aren’t necessary.

The thing my club really gets right is being a family club – taking part in the town’s activities, taking in local football tournaments or making hospital visits. The active player I’d love to have

back is Harrogate’s Luke Armstrong. He always worked his socks off and his professionalism was unrivalled.

The opposition player who grinds my

gears is Harry Mckirdy. Two goals in a 3- 0 dead- rubber win against us and he gloated. I’ve a feeling I may not be the only person who has this answer. The fans’ opinion of the gaffer is positive. Fans like what they hear from Paul Hartley [ below], who won backto- back promotions into the Scottish Championship with Cove Rangers. If he left, he should be replaced by

Tony Sweeney, who did brilliantly as interim last term. Deserves his chance.

The pantomime villain will be Dave Challinor. He signed a new Hartlepool contract in September, then left weeks later for a pay cheque at Stockport. The opposition player I’d love here is

Grimsby’s impressive John Mcatee – skilful, quick and a game- changer. The one change I’d make would be to the catering. It’s almost impossible to grab a refreshment at half- time.

We’ll finish 10th.

FFT VERDICT

23RD

Timi Odusina and Luke Molyneux are huge losses for Pools, who hope those setbacks can be offset by smart signings from Scotland. Joe Grey and Tom Crawford may go up a gear, but Hartley’s Highland hires – numbering four before June’s end – must adjust to League Two fast.