Hartlepool v Morecambe preview

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Hartlepool are sweating over the fitness of Luke James ahead of a vital clash with the Shrimps.

The 16-goal striker will be assessed by Pools’ medical staff having hurt his ankle in an awkward fall during the 3-0 loss to Burton on Saturday. The injury forced James off and he has been receiving treatment in the build-up to kick-off.

Boss Colin Cooper, whose side have lost their last six games, remains without Antony Sweeney (hamstring), Neil Austin (toe) and Christian Burgess (ankle).

Pools’ awful run has seen them slide to within just two points of the League Two relegation zone.

Andy Fleming will miss out when Morecambe head to fellow strugglers Hartlepool.

The 26-year-old midfielder will serve the third of his three game ban for a red card in the home defeat to Mansfield and miss out for a Shrimps side who are without a win in eight League Two matches.

Jim Bentley will be without midfielder Stewart Drummond (toe) once more and he could hand a start to Jack Sampson after the striker grabbed a last-gasp equaliser to earn them a welcome point against Scunthorpe on Friday.

Victory over Pools would all but secure League Two football for Morecambe next season.