Eight things to look out for as Hartlepool United prepare for tough trip to Southend

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Hartlepool United manager Lennie Lawrence is hoping for the perfect 77th birthday present when his side travel to Southend on Saturday. The veteran boss, who is the third oldest active manager in the world, has masterminded a turnaround in Pools' fortunes since replacing the outspoken Darren Sarll in October. Pools have lost just one of their eight league games under Lawrence to move within striking distance of the play-offs but know that a couple of bad results risks seeing them slip back into the bottom half. Pools can expect a stern test in Essex against a Southend side who have endured a difficult season so far but retain big ambitions of their own. Here are eight things to look out for at Roots Hall.

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