Is this how Hartlepool United will line up in National League season opener against Barrow?

No real debate here, although Pools do have four goalkeepers under contract ahead of the new campaign. While the 20-year-old was perhaps a little fortunate having appeared to handle the ball outside his area just three minutes into last week's hard-fought win over League Two Fleetwood Town, Merrick grew into the game and produced several fine saves as he secured his first clean sheet at Victoria Park. There were times when the young goalkeeper looked a little nervous with the ball at his feet and there are certainly plenty of areas where he'll need to improve, but the Chelsea loanee has made an encouraging start to his time in the North East and will begin the season as Lee Clark's number one.