Hartlepool look set to be without a trio of players for the FA Cup clash at home to Kettering.

James Brown continues to struggle with the knee injury he sustained in Pools` 1-0 win against Tranmere. He missed last weekend`s trip to Brighton and is unlikely to be risked.

Ritchie Jones, who had impressed on his return to the starting line-up, suffered a thigh problem in the first half of the 3-3 draw against the Seagulls and is not expected to recover in time.

And Leon McSweeney, handed a starting role at the Withdean Stadium, was also unable to start the second half with a foot injury.

Kettering boss Mark Cooper played for Hartlepool between 1996 and 1997 and also masterminded a 2-1 FA Cup victory at Victoria Park while in charge of Tamworth in 2005.