Cheltenham Town vs Hartlepool United FC preview - Marquis set for Robins bow

Posted Friday, August 29, 2014 by PA

Cheltenham could hand new signing John Marquis his debut against Hartlepool.

The 22-year-old, who arrived on an initial one-month loan from Millwall on Thursday, will be involved and he could even stake a claim for a start.

Experienced defender Steve Elliott trained on Tuesday having been withdrawn at half-time against Tranmere on Saturday having felt unwell and he is expected to retain his place in the side as the Robins look to build on an impressive start to the campaign.

Birmingham loanee Koby Arthur is close to earning a start, according to boss Mark Yates, who also confirmed that Asa Hall remains on the sidelines with the calf injury he sustained on his debut.

Hartlepool boss Colin Cooper must decide whether to recall wantaway teenage striker Luke James to his squad.

James, who has handed in two transfer requests, missed three days' training last week after Pools turned down two bids from Peterborough for the 19-year-old. He was not involved in last week's win at AFC Wimbledon but has since rejoined the squad and could be in contention.

Defender Stuart Parnaby missed out last week due to a hamstring injury and remains doubtful and midfielder Lewis Hawkins, who sustained an ankle injury in training, is unlikely to feature.

Cooper has no other new injury or suspension problems as Pools look to build on last week's first win of the season.