Blackpool are preparing for a crucial end to the season as they look to avoid being relegated to League Two.
Last season, they finished 9th, 11 points off the safety. However, this season the Seasiders find themselves, rather unexpectedly, in a relegation battle with 12 games left to play.
Before the season started, Opta’s supercomputer predicted they would finish third, with a 21.9% chance of going up. Now, though, the same supercomputer has given them a 32.74% chance of going down.
With survival likely the only thing manager Ian Evatt can think about right now, he has provided fans with the latest Blackpool injury news ahead of their game against Wigan Athletic.
Blackpool Injury News
Speaking to the Blackpool Gazette ahead of their home tie against Wigan Athletic, Evatt confirmed who is available for the game:
“We haven’t had any more injuries, which is a start. Dale Taylor is getting closer – it probably won’t be this week, but it’ll be more towards the Port Vale game (March 17) possibly.
“Michael Ihiekwe will be back for this weekend. We know where he’s at in terms of fitness with his toe, but needs must. He’s a very experienced player – and at the moment we need experience.
“Ryan Finnigan’s not too far away now, he should be back with the team next week.
“Joel Randall got some minutes on Saturday. He didn’t look himself, but that will help him move forwards.
“With everyone else, we know where we’re at. Andy Lyons is long-term, Albie Morgan is long-term.”
The immediate positive Blackpool fans will take is that there are no new injury concerns. The other is the return of experienced defender Michael Ihiekwe.
The 33-year-old hasn’t played since Valentine’s Day, and as Evatt alluded to, his experience will be crucial.
Evatt’s comments about his toe injury suggest he might be playing with a slight injury still. With survival being so important, it is something the defender will likely need to cope with.
What Does Ihiekwe Add to Blackpool?
Since joining on a free transfer last summer after leaving Sheffield Wednesday, Ihiekwe has played 23 games in the league. In those appearances, he has received an average Sofascore rating of 6.87.
The experienced defender has been a key part of the Blackpool defence. He’s averaged 0.8 interceptions per game, 1.6 tackles per game, 7.8 clearances per game, and recovered three balls per game.
In the three games since he last featured, the side has conceded six goals, including four in their outing against Lincoln City.
Having his added experience back in the side as they go into 12 crucial games, will likely only add to their survival hopes.
