Blackpool manager Ian Evatt is preparing his squad for a League One trip to Barnsley with two players set to return from injury. The Seasiders head to Oakwell sitting third in the table with seven points from four games, their recent form reading LWWD.
Ilmari Niskanen and Hayden Coulson could be available for selection this week. Their potential return comes at a good time, as the squad deals with several confirmed absences. Fraser Horsfall, Michael Ihiekwe, Jordan Brown, Niall Ennis and Dale Taylor will all miss the fixture.
Bailey Peacock-Farrell is expected to continue in goal behind a back three. Olly Casey should retain his place in that defensive unit. Josh Earl is likely to feature against his former club, having departed Barnsley for Blackpool just a week ago. Jordan Williams, who scored his first goal for the club in the 4-0 win over Peterborough United, will also be a key part of the rearguard.
Josh Bowler began the campaign on the right flank and is predicted to start again. Karoy Anderson, who also found the net against Peterborough after his permanent move from Charlton Athletic, will be central to Evatt's plans. Zac Ashworth is available again after serving a one-match suspension and provides another option in wide areas. The team's overall form is strong, having scored eight goals and conceded only four so far this season for a healthy goal difference.
The returning Niskanen and Coulson will bolster the matchday squad, offering Evatt more flexibility from the bench. The manager noted the boost their availability provides. "On the back of Saturday’s 4-0 victory over Peterborough United, Ian Evatt is set to welcome two players back into his matchday squad," he said. This added depth is important as Blackpool aim to close the three-point gap to league leaders Huddersfield Town. Fans can track the team's progress and position on our standings page.
Focus will quickly shift to the next challenge on the calendar. Immediately following the Oakwell trip, Blackpool travel to face Reading on September 5th. Reading currently occupy 14th place in the League One table. The squad's current injury situation can also be monitored via our dedicated injuries page.
