This will be Blackpool’s toughest test of the League One season as they travel to Portsmouth.
With 10 wins, 6 draws, and 36 points from 16 games this season, John Mousinho’s team is leading the division. Owen Dale is one player who could plan the Hampshire team’s demise because he holds the key to victory.
Although a lot of the players have changed since he was on loan at Fratton Park during the previous season when Blackpool was in the Championship, he may still be somewhat knowledgeable about the advantages and disadvantages of some of them.
Blackpool’s crucial victory over Shrewsbury Town last time out came after three straight league games ended in defeat.
While it would be cruel to alter a winning squad, there are some games where it is necessary to do so in order to counter the opposition’s threat. Portsmouth can harm the opposition in a number of ways.
First-team manager Neil Critchley revealed that Ollie Norburn and Matty Virtue might be able to make a comeback this coming weekend in a positive injury update. After missing a few weeks, Norburn returned against Bolton Wanderers; however, he later sustained rib bruises and has missed the last two games.
Virtue, a former midfielder for Liverpool, has been sidelined for the past two months due to a hamstring injury, but he has recovered well enough to be considered for a spot in the starting lineup.
Despite the absence of Kylian Kouassi and Shayne Lavery, no new injury concerns have surfaced. Jake Beesley has a strong case to be starting again after scoring four goals the previous week.
Here is the lineup and bench we predict for Blackpool:
1. GK: Daniel Grimshaw
He’s got the task of keeping out Colby Bishop, one of the most dangers strikers in the division.
2. CB: Matthew Pennington
Matthew Pennington enjoyed a solid enough afternoon against Shrewsbury. He should start once more.
3. CB: Marvin Ekpiteta
Had a spell out of the side but is now looking to hold his place down in the squad.
4. CB: James Husband
James Husband has been a key man for the Seasiders so far this season. He’s one game booking away from a suspension, so it’s key he doesn’t get booked.
5. RWB: CJ Hamilton
Transfer speculation linking him with three different clubs, but expect him to just get on with things. Ever present in League One this term
6. CM: Kenny Dougall
Dougall’s back in the midfield and should hold his place down in the side. He’s a player capable of causing Pompey some problems.
7. CM: Ollie Norburn
Missed the last two games through injury. He could be back in contention and for a game like this you’d like someone who adds steel to the midfield.
8. CM: Karamoko Dembele
This game might lend itself to shutting up shop and letting Pompey have the ball. Blackpool need someone who’s going to cause some problems though and Demble deserves another nod
9. LWB: Callum Connolly
Could he be recalled back to the side? He’s played everywhere this season. Coming in at left wing-back could provide some defensive cover down the flanks.
10. ST: Jordan Rhodes
Neil Critchley admitted he’s not 100% but he is expected to play. You’ve got to start him fully fit or not.
11. ST: Jake Beesley
Four goals in two games last week. Deserves a start this week. His physical presence could cause some problems for the home defence.
12. SUB: Oliver Casey
Team registered a clean sheet with him on the bench last week. His suspension has seen him lose his place in the side.
13. SUB: Sonny Carey
Did well last weekend, and maybe harsh that he could be dropped. The team does need some bite in the midfield however.
14. SUB: Albie Morgan
Another midfield option to have. Come off the bench the last few games.
15. SUB: Kyle Joseph.
Kyle Joseph marked his home debut for Blackpool with a goal from the bench. Different forward option to have if isn’t going their way.
16. SUB: Andy Lyons
There will need to be some cover for the wing-backs
17. SUB: Matty Virtue
Could we see Matty Virtue return after two months? He’s been out with a hamstring injury, but has been training well for nearly a fortnight now.
18. SUB: Richard O’Donnell
Back-up goalkeeper, ready to call upon if needed.
