Cup-tie a big benchmark for new Blackpool, says skipper

Experienced pro Pugh, 33, joined from Bury this summer and has just been given the captain’s armband by new boss Gary Bowyer.

The Seasiders are hoping to end their first-hurdle hoodoo in this competition and win a League Cup tie for the first time since 2009.

However, they face a manager with a sparkling cup record in Phil Parkinson, who guided then League Two side Bradford to the final of this competition in 2013 before moving on to Bolton this summer.

Parkinson’s Bantams lost 5-0 to Swansea in that Wembley final but then took the scalps of Chelsea and Sunderland on their way to the semi-finals of the FA Cup two seasons later.

And Pugh is looking forward to a tough test tonight. He said: “The season has well and truly started now. It is good for us to get off to a winning start.

“I think that sets us up nicely and we have another game to look forward to. I think it is a good way to test ourselves to see what level we are at.

“It will be a good game for us to see what standard we are really at.”

“Phil Parkinson did exceptionally well with Bradford. I played against his teams a couple of times last season, (at Bury). We also played Bradford in the FA Cup (winning on penalties after two goalless draws) and Phil’s teams are always tough to play against. This will be a tough test.

“The game against Exeter went well. I enjoyed being captain and the result was the main thing.” With attackers Kyle Vassell and Danny Philliskirk picking up knocks last weekend, Pugh says tonight’s game will be a chance for some of the fringe players to stake their claim for places.

He added: “It is a bit disappointing that the lads have picked up knocks, but we have a good squad and the lads looking to come in will want to stake a claim.

“With the changes to the loan system, we need a good squad.

“I think all the lads are going to be used and it is a good chance to get games.

“The lads who did not play on Saturday are all champing at the bit and are training brightly. Everyone wants a chance and there is going to be a chance tonight for people to maybe stake a claim.”

Tonight’s 7.45pm kick-off is the first meeting between the clubs since they were Championship rivals two seasons ago and both games ended 1-1.

Pool have since dropped two tiers, while Bolton were relegated to League One last term. Both clubs have new managers and started the League season with a win.

Bolton have twice been losing finalists in the League Cup, in 1995 and 2004, and they are expected to make changes after Saturday’s 1-0 win over Sheffield United.

Darren Pratley is an injury doubt, while Lewis Buxton and David Wheater are likely to be rested.

Ben Amos may get the nod between the sticks after Mark Howard was preferred against the Blades on Saturday.

And Pugh warned Bolton that if Pool continue to play as they did on Saturday they will be a tough nut to crack.

He said: “I think that with the players we have we are always going to create chances. And if we can keep it solid at the back, which we did against Exeter, we are going to be a tough team to beat.

“There are a lot of new faces and a new manager, but I think we looked good and solid as a unit, though it is still very early days.

“The manager said he wants 11 captains out there but it is about helping each other out. He has given the captaincy to me and I hope to help the young lads out if I can.

“From the minute I walked in here a few weeks ago, there has been a really good atmosphere. It has not been the best few years for the club but the manager has brought that positive attitude around the place.”

Pugh took time out yesterday to model Pool’s new away strip to be worn for the first time at Morecambe on Saturday.

Designed by Errea, the two-tone shirts are accompanied by navy blue shorts and socks.