Hartlepool

22/23 Position: 23rd (L2)

Founded: 1908

Nickname: The Monkey Hangers

Ground: Technique Stadium

Key Player: Josh Umerah

Opening Fixtures:

Barnet (A)

Gateshead (H)

Maidenhead (H)

Southend (A)

Fylde (H)

The Odds:

Title: 14/1

Promotion: 7/1

Top 7: 11/10

Manager: John Askey

Key Signing: Mani Dieseruvwe

The fact that Hartlepool have been able to keep hold of Umerah is something of a miracle. And looking at their recruitment, both with the signings of Dieseruvwe and Wreh, I don’t believe the Poolies believed they’d keep hold of him either. The 26 year old scored 12 goals last season, and despite playing in a relegated side he looked a real handful throughout the campaign. He scored 16 goals for part time Wealdstone the last time he was at this level too, so he should guarantee a decent return this season. An absolute monster of a man, one who holds the ball up well, but crucially one who scores goals too. He had the best goal to minute record in the National League in 21/22, and while he didn’t quite keep that up for Halifax this season, he was still their main goal threat, scoring a respectable 13 goals. He’s able to perform as the focal point for a side, and due to his huge frame is an absolute menace in the air. Given the right service he scores for fun.

Verdict:

While he didn’t keep them up, he made a good go of it. And if nothing else, it was wonderful preparation for this season, as the Pools couldn’t ask for a better head coach to lead them into the new campaign. Askey was the subject of the strangest decision in the National League last season, when York let him go, a decision they immediately regretted. He’s a proven promotion winner, and someone who will want to be back in the EFL in 12 months time. There’s more reason to be optimistic about a side being relegated from League 2 than there was last summer. For starters, Hartlepool have John Askey in charge, a man I believe is one of the very best at this level. They’ve also got a strong squad, made some good signings, and seem to be in an altogether better place than Oldham and indeed

Scunthorpe were 12 months ago. Playoff contenders for me.

Prediction: 6th