Hartlepool United are preparing for a National League away match against Sutton United on Saturday, with manager Lee Clark reporting a full squad health after two wins and two clean sheets. The 2–0 victory over Barrow on opening day and the 1–0 win at Aldershot Town last weekend set the stage for the trip, while midfielder Owen Hampson and forward Luke Charman remain sidelined.
Injury Update
Clark confirmed that Hampson and Charman are still out, but defender Liam Gibson has returned to training and is available for selection. "Just the same, Hampson and Charman [out], but that's it really, we have got a full bill of health. Gibson's back involved, so that's good news," he told the Mail.
Team Spirit
Speaking at Maiden Castle, Clark praised the squad’s morale: "The spirit in the camp is fantastic. It has been since the first day of pre‑season, the group are brilliant. They've been exceptional in everything we've asked of them from day one and they're getting their rewards with the results, so hopefully that will continue." He added that the players who were not in the starting XI are eager to contribute: "I want them to all be playing. What they're showing when they come on, they've got the right mentality, the right attitude and that's what I'm saying about the group."
Match Ahead
The coach highlighted the impact of substitutions: "On both games, every single substitution I've made has made an impact. That's full credit to the players, really, in terms of their mentality and what they're trying to do." He noted the challenges posed by heat conditions in the first two games and the need for high‑intensity football: "The lads who start aren't going to be able to last all of them. The lads who are coming on are just taking on the baton and making a huge contribution."
Fan Engagement
The Hartlepool Mail has launched a new WhatsApp HUFC Channel to deliver the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to fans’ phones. The channel is designed to keep supporters informed ahead of the Sutton United trip.
The match against Sutton United will test Hartlepool’s early-season form and squad depth as they look to maintain their momentum in the National League.
