BLACKPOOL will be hoping to bounce straight back to Division Two after the heartbreak of least season.

The campaign campaign kicks off on August 12 with a home match against Hull City.

Steve McMahon has been quiet in the transfer market and there have been been more goings than arrivals at Bloomfield Road in the close season.

Early season hopes were dealt a cruel early blow when left back John Hills pulled a hamstring against Southport on Saturday putting him out of action for possibly four to six weeks.

The Tangerines will also be without Richard Wellens who faces a four match suspension.

The Seasiders' pre-season matches saw a successful tour to the Caribbean followed by two home victories against Scottish teams St Mirren and Raith Rovers.

The only setback was a 1-0 defeat last week at Southport but given the nature of the game with five substitutes used Steve McMahon must be pleased with the pre-season performances. The start of the season sees just three new signings at Bloomfield Road, each of them free transfers. They are midfielder Mike Milligan from Norwich City, midfielder Lee Collins from Swindon Town and full back Neil Murphy from Liverpool.

Leaving the club were Clarke Carlisle to QPR, Andy Couzens, Barry Shuttleworth, Phil Robinson, Kevin Richardson and Paul Beesley who has joined Chester City as player and assistant manager.

While money is obviously tight at the club Steve McMahon is thought to be on the lookout for new players.

BLACKPOOL will play Stockport County on August 22 in the opening round of the Worthington Cup.

FANS are reminded that Saturday's match against Hull City is an all-ticket game and tickets will be on sale on the day.

HULL City, now managed by former Leicester City and Aston Villa manager Brian Little, will include a familiar face to Seasiders fans with ex-Pool player Gary Brabin playing for the Tigers.

The team will also include David Brightwell who has played in the top flight for Manchester City.