Hartlepool United understood to be weighing up goalkeeping options in Max Merrick's absence

First-choice Max Merrick, who made a superb start to life at Victoria Park after joining on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea in July, has been sidelined since he was forced off 32 minutes into the win over Woking at the beginning of the month.

The 20-year-old, who has drawn widespread praise for his confidence, command of his area and conviction when coming for crosses, missed his side's defeat to Sutton United in August after a scan revealed minor damage to his quad muscle.

The youngster, who has previously spent time on loan at Hanwell Town as well as Hampton and Richmond Borough, returned for games against Eastleigh and Halifax Town before a recurrence of the injury saw him trudge off as Pools got the better of the Cardinals earlier this month.