Blackpool have been dealt a fitness boost ahead of their FA Cup fourth round tie against top flight side Brighton and Hove Albion.

Dan Ballard, Grant Ward and Bez Lubala had all been doubts for the midweek clash against Northampton Town, which was postponed late on due to a waterlogged pitch.

Head coach Neil Critchley is now hopeful all three will be back in contention for Saturday’s trip to the south coast.

Elsewhere, Daniel Gretarsson, Keshi Anderson and CJ Hamilton remain sidelined with injuries, while Demetri Mitchell is still out having recently tested positive for coronavirus.

Grant Ward could be available for Blackpool tomorrow afternoon

placeholder image — Grant Ward could be available for Blackpool tomorrow afternoon

“Demi won’t be available because he’s self-isolating but we’re hopeful Grant Ward and Dan Ballard will both be available for the weekend,” Critchley said.

“Bez Lubala had a bit of an issue, having come off at Hull at the weekend, but he should be available as well.

“Other than that, the other three main ones are Daniel Gretarsson, Keshi Anderson and CJ Hamilton but they won’t be available for a few weeks.”

New signing Ellis Simms, meanwhile, could make his Blackpool debut after joining on loan from Everton.

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 per month for the first two months. Try us today by clicking here