Blackpool will travel to Holker Street on Saturday afternoon for their third pre-season friendly as manager Ian Evatt looks to build squad sharpness ahead of the new campaign. After matches against AFC Fylde and Tranmere Rovers over the last two weekends, the Seasiders should see a fuller complement of players available following a series of minor knocks.
Returnees and recovery
Midfielder George Honeyman is pencilled in to return to the matchday squad after missing the Tranmere fixture at Prenton Park. Fellow arrival Karoy Anderson could also be involved after rejoining the group at Bloomfield Road earlier this week.
Players still working back to full fitness include Olly Casey, Leighton Clarkson and Tom Bloxham, who are expected to feature at some point in the coming weeks as their recovery progresses. Central defenders Fraser Horsfall and Michael Ihiekwe remain close to a return after undergoing surgery at the end of last season.
Likely starting line-up and bench
Based on recent team news and squad availability, Blackpool could deploy the following XI at Barrow:
- Bailey Peacock-Farrell — likely to continue as first-choice goalkeeper following his move to Bloomfield Road last summer.
- Andy Lyons — expected to cover the right side of the back three amid current defensive shortages.
- Oluchukwu Nwankwo — the teenager offers a natural centre-back option and is currently fit for selection.
- Zac Ashworth — pushing for regular minutes in the left centre-back position.
- Ilmari Niskanen — new recruit looking to adapt to the Tangerines ahead of competitive fixtures.
- Jordan Brown — will benefit from Anderson’s return after a productive partnership last season.
The remainder of the bench is likely to include a mix of returning senior players and youngsters the manager wishes to assess before the Championship season begins.
What this means for the squad
Evatt will use the fixture to manage minutes and push players closer to full match fitness. The friendly provides an opportunity to test defensive combinations while reintegrating midfield and attacking options gradually. For supporters, the match is another chance to see recent signings and academy prospects in competitive action.
| Player | Status |
|---|---|
| George Honeyman | Due to return after missing previous game |
| Karoy Anderson | Back in training this week |
| Olly Casey, Leighton Clarkson, Tom Bloxham | Expected to return in coming weeks |
| Fraser Horsfall, Michael Ihiekwe | Recovering from surgery; close to fitness |
Supporters should note that pre-season line-ups are provisional and dependent on training assessments and any late fitness concerns. The upcoming trip to Cumbria will be another step in refining the squad ahead of the competitive season.
