I’m finding it difficult to drum up any real enthusiasm about tomorrow. The disappointing end to a season of such promise, coupled with all of the problems caused by a summer of rebuilding under another new manager, all of which, if not caused by the Chairman, have been contributed to by him, just drives the stuffing out of fans. I know Jeff protests that Richard Money’s departure was not caused by the lack of clarity on next year’s budget, as he says that the budget hasn’t been set yet. That he doesn’t see the contradiction in his assertions in the press this week that the next manager will have a bigger budget than that which was at Money’s disposal this season and the statement that the budget hasn’t been set yet, just beggars belief.

One consolation, I suppose, is that at least it’s Hartlepool. The good natured banter with the fans of the North Eastern club all through last season (coupled with the fact we pipped them for the title, of course) means that they are one club where the rivalry is definitely friendly and they are most welcome visitors on the last day of the season.

The question in the forefront of most fans’ minds will, I suppose, be whether this will prove to be Jimmy Mullen’s last game in charge. The former Burnley man has made no secret of the fact he wants the job, but the lack of reaction of the players last week doesn’t bode well for his chances. My money is on someone completely out of left field again.

Mullen does have some selection problems. He will be hoping that Lee Holmes and Troy Deeney will pass tests, after they missed the last game.

Ishmel Demontagnac is also hopeful of being involved having suffered a swollen knee after Tuesday’s testimonial game against Wolves. However, Aaron Brown’s participation is in doubt as he took a knock to his ankle in the midweek game. Ian Roper and Paul Boertien remain sidelined, of course, along with Stefan Moore who has, we are told, a calf problem.

As for the opposition, they look set to be without their number one strike pairing.

Joel Porter was taken off in the early stages of Saturday’s game with Nottingham Forest and is a major doubt with a knee injury, while Richie Barker is still sidelined by a hamstring problem

Predictions?

What’s the weather forecast? 19 degrees and showers? If the showers hold off and the sun shines, this, as a meaningless end of the season fixture, is almost certain to be a dreamy afternoon in the sunshine, with the players on the beach and a 0 – 0, unless there’s a dreadful howler from a defender. A nailed on 4 – 0, then!