Michael Appleton previews six-pointer against Hull City as Blackpool come up against former managerial candidate

The Seasiders have played out two draws since returning from the World Cup break, having previously lost four games on the spin.

It leaves Michael Appleton’s side in 22nd place, two points adrift of their next opponents Hull.

Monday’s trip to Humberside is the first of three over the course of just six days, with back-to-back home games against Sheffield United and Sunderland to follow.

“They’re all massive games, but these games are bigger because the clubs are in and around you,” Appleton told The Gazette when asked about the significance of the Hull fixture.

“But ultimately it’s still very condensed down at the bottom and we’ve got three games in a week and they’re the type of weeks where, if you pick up nine points, things can look very different.”

While Jordan Thorniley could return from concussion and Marvin Ekpiteta will be available after serving his two-match ban, the Seasiders will still be without at least six players through injury.

While not using his absentees as an excuse, Appleton knows the January transfer window can’t come soon enough for the Seasiders.

“I think it’s a case for us of getting through that last week and getting to January. Not just for myself and the staff, but for the players as well,” he added.

“It’s always nice to have reinforcements and fresh faces around the building. It ups everyone’s game.

“At the end of the day you always have to look to improve and get better and the players are expecting that.”

Hull are now managed by Liam Rosenior, who came down to the final two for the Blackpool vacancy prior to Appleton’s appointment.

The 38-year-old has lost just one of his first five games in charge, winning one and drawing the other three.

The Tigers, who will be looking to complete the double over Blackpool after winning 3-1 at Bloomfield Road in October, have the league’s leakiest defence with 40 goals conceded in their 23 games.