Leicester travel to Hartlepool tomorrow evening as they attempt to extend the gap at the top of League One, a figure which currently stands at 9 points.
The Foxes have emerged victorious on both occassions the two sides have met so far this season; 1-0 at the Walkers in League One and 3-0 at Victoria Park in the JPT.
Vital Quotes:
Hartlepool United Team News:
Hartlepool are sweating on the fitness of top-scorer Joel Porter, along with Jamie McCunnie and Ritchie Jones. The trio missed Saturday’s 3-1 defeat at MK Dons on Saturday.
Pools are also without Daniel Nardiello, who sits out his final game through suspension, but welcome back Matty Robon and Ben Clark to the squad.
Player to watch: Joel Porter
If fit, Hartlepool’s top goalscorer will no doubt cause problems to Leicester’s back line. The striker already has 17 goals for the season, a tidy return.
Leicester City Team News:
Leicester will probably be without goalkeeper David Martin, who was forced off through injury in Saturday’s game against Swindon. Mysteries as to Paul Henderson’s whereabouts are yet to be concluded, so youngster Carl Pentney may get his opportunity between the sticks.
Pearson may also decide to rest out-of-form Lloyd Dyer, with Max Gradel favourite to replace the winger.
Player to watch: Jack Hobbs
With Hartlepool’s extremely impressive goal-scoring record at home this season, Hobbs will have to be on guard alongside Michael Morrison. The on-loan Liverpool man has been in solid form for the Foxes all season at the heart of defence and will be looking to keep Porter and co out.
Match Facts & Stats
The teams’ only two competetive fixtures have come this season in the same month, Leicester running out winners on both occassions.
Top goalscorers:
Hartlepool: Joel Porter (17)
Leicester: Matty Fryatt (25)
Match Prediction:
Hartlepool 0-1 Leicester
Next Fixtures:
Hartlepool: 21/02/09 – Leyton Orient (H)
Leicester: 21/02/09 – Bristol Rovers (A)
