Chris Turner has been busy in the transfer market this summer

Hartlepool United manager Chris Turner believes the trio of clubs relegated from the Championship will find it difficult to adjust in League One.

Norwich, Charlton and Southampton joined Leeds United in the third tier and Turner believes smaller clubs will be inspired by their presence.

"It's the strongest League One we've played in," he told BBC Tees.

"It's going to be exciting, a lot of big clubs have come in and found it tough in the first season."

Meanwhile Turner has brought in a host of players to Victoria Park in order to strengthen his squad for the new campaign.

Striker Leon McSweeney has arrived from Stockport along with Leyton Orient forward Adam Boyd, goalkeeper Scott Flinders made the switch from Crystal Palace and defenders Neil Austin and Peter Hartley have signed from Darlington and Sunderland respectively.

Club captain Michael Nelson is a high profile departure, leaving for Norwich City, while winger Matty Robson has joined League One rivals Carlisle.

However Pools will also be boosted by the return of striker James Brown from long-term injury, and the potential rehabilitation in time for the new season of Willie Bolland, Turner believes their presence is as good as two new signings.

"James is fit now to join the first-team squad, they were massive losses last season when you only have a small squad," he said.

"To have James back at this moment is great, but we'll only start playing him when he's ready."

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