Blackpool manager Ian Evatt is considering squad rotation for the EFL Cup second-round tie against Lincoln City at Bloomfield Road. The Seasiders enter the match with an unbeaten start to the 2026/27 campaign, sitting sixth in League One with four points from two games. Evatt's side must balance cup ambitions with a demanding early-season schedule that includes a league clash with Peterborough United this Saturday.
Evatt confirmed several players are still working towards full fitness after a disrupted pre-season. The manager has been carefully managing game time for individuals carrying minor injuries. "We’re going to need to because at the moment we’re still at the stage of getting people up to speed," Evatt said. He described last weekend's 2-1 league win over Stockport County as an incredibly physically demanding contest, which has influenced his planning for the cup.
A number of Blackpool players have been building their match sharpness over the opening weeks. The team's pre-season was not ideal for everyone, leading to a cautious approach from the coaching staff. Some players have had their minutes managed in the initial matches to avoid setbacks. This situation makes rotation a likely option for the Lincoln City fixture, especially with another important game just days later. Evatt noted there are still people carrying niggles and knocks, so the medical team's input will be vital.
Ian Evatt was clear about the club's primary focus while also expressing a desire to compete on all fronts. "Our bread and butter is the league, but we want to be competitive in every game we play - and that will never change for me," he stated. This philosophy guides his team selection. Blackpool's league form has been solid, with a win and a draw putting them just two points behind early leaders Bradford City. The team has scored three goals and conceded two across all competitions, giving them a positive goal difference.
The quick turnaround is a significant factor. After hosting Lincoln City in the cup on Wednesday evening, Blackpool faces an early kick-off against Peterborough United at home on Saturday. Peterborough are currently 13th in the table, making it a key early-season League One encounter. This packed schedule forces Evatt to think strategically about his resources. Fans can track the team's upcoming matches on our dedicated fixtures page.
Maintaining their positive start is the overarching goal. Blackpool began the season with a 3-1 away victory over Grimsby Town in the first round of the EFL Cup. In League One, they have collected four points from their opening two outings. Their current standing of sixth place provides a platform to build from. Young striker Finley Munroe has contributed to the early form, leading the team's scoring charts with one goal from his two appearances. Supporters can follow the evolving league picture on our standings section.
Balancing squad management with competitive ambition is Evatt's immediate challenge. The decision on who features against Lincoln City will reflect both the need to progress in the cup and the necessity to keep players fresh for the league. With a busy period ahead, effective use of the entire squad could be key to sustaining Blackpool's promising opening to the new season. The manager's admission highlights a pragmatic approach as the club handles a congested August schedule.
