Steve Bruce is expected to ring the changes when Blackpool take on Aston Villa in the Round of 32 in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday (December 17) night.
Josh Onomah suffered a hip injury against Reading at the weekend. He had to be replaced after 41 minutes, and so he is unlikely to play against his former club this evening. Bruce described the injury as a 'big problem' as a hip injury affects a players mobility. The 27-year-old will be hoping the injury isn’t too serious as his short-term contract expires in the next few weeks.
Elliot Embleton and Hayden Coulson were both absent against the Royals, but could both be considered. An enforced change is Odeluga Offiah who is ineligible as he has already played for Brighton & Hove Albion in the competition, and so for sure changes are afoot.
This is a competition in which several youngsters have been afforded the opportunity to play. One eye will be on the game against Stevenage at the weekend, so fringe players could be afforded an opportunity to work their way in to the manager’s plans.
With all things considered, this is the XI that we think Brucey will send out against Josep Gombau’s young Villains.
7. Ollie Norburn
Norburn returned from suspension against Reading as a substitute. The captain could start tonight. Photo: CameraSport - Richard Martin-Rob
8. Ryan Finnigan
Featured more regularly in recent times. He could do with putting in a good performance to try and get a run in the league. Photo: CameraSport - Richard Martin-Rob
9. Dominic Thompson
Dominic Thompson has been utilised as a more attacking option off the bench in recent weeks. Could get a start today. Photo: CameraSport - Ian Cook
10. Jordan Rhodes
Suffered a concussion against Birmingham City a fortnight ago but returned against Reading. Could lead the line tonight. He'd like a goal or two. Photo: CameraSport - Richard Martin-Roberts
11. Dom Ballard
Dom Ballard enjoyed some bright moments against Reading. He may have played his way in to a start. Photo: CameraSport - Ian Cook
