Blackpool's squad is severely depleted by injuries and suspension as they prepare to host Peterborough United in a League One fixture this weekend. The Seasiders will be without seven players for certain, with a further key doubt, according to a team news report from the Blackpool Gazette.
Who is definitely out for Blackpool?
Zac Ashworth is suspended after his red card in Tuesday's EFL Cup defeat to Lincoln City. He will serve a one-match ban. Jordan Brown remains unavailable following a seizure earlier this month, though he undertook final tests this week. Niall Ennis is sidelined for weeks with a hamstring injury first flagged in the Carabao Cup, while Dale Taylor has a similar issue and will be out slightly longer. Fraser Horsfall is still in a protective boot for three to four weeks after complications from ankle surgery. Michael Ihiekwe is increasing his loading ahead of a hoped return to training next month following toe surgery. Oluchi Nwankwo is out for months with a knee problem sustained in a friendly.
What is the latest on Ilmari Niskanen?
Ilmari Niskanen is the major doubt for the match against Peterborough United. The player endured a nightmare competitive debut for the Seasiders away to Grimsby, with his afternoon coming to an early conclusion due to a shoulder injury. His return is considered more likely for the midweek fixture against Barnsley rather than this Saturday's game. This leaves Blackpool's defensive options further stretched as they look to contain a Posh side.
How has Blackpool's season started?
Neil Critchley's side have taken four points from their opening two League One games. They drew 1-1 with Wycombe Wanderers before securing a 2-1 victory away at Stockport County last weekend, with goals from Tom Bloxham and Josh Bowler. Their midweek cup campaign ended with a 4-1 defeat to Lincoln City. In the broader context of the season, Peterborough United currently sit 13th in League One with 3 points from one win and one loss. They have scored 2 goals and conceded 3, leaving them with a -1 goal difference and three points behind early leaders Bradford City.
What does this mean for the Peterborough United game?
The extensive absentee list forces Blackpool into significant reshuffling. The confirmed returns of Jerry Yates on loan from Luton Town and defender Josh Earl from Barnsley provide some relief, but they must integrate quickly. For Peterborough United, facing a patched-up Blackpool defence could present a key opportunity. The Posh will be aiming to improve their early-season form and climb the table from their current 13th-place standing.
What comes next for Peterborough United?
Following this away trip, Peterborough United's focus shifts quickly to their next League One assignment. They host Stevenage at home on September 1st. Stevenage are currently 19th in the table, offering another chance for Darren Ferguson's side to build momentum. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches on our dedicated fixtures and standings pages. Managing the squad through this busy period will be vital as they look to close the three-point gap to the top.
