Doubts over Blackpool duo for Wycombe trip

The Seasiders open their account with a trip to newly promoted Wycombe Wanderers, but they could have to do without the duo who are struggling with knocks.

Ryan didn’t feature in any of Pool’s public friendlies with a knee injury, while new signing McLaughlin hobbled out of their 1-1 draw at AFC Fylde after tweaking his hamstring.

While both aren’t thought to be too far away, Bowyer has hinted he won’t be risking them at Adams Park this afternoon.

“We’ve got a couple injured and you don’t half notice it straight away,” he told The Gazette.

“But Jimmy Ryan has made progress this week.

“Everybody knows what an outstanding player he is, especially for us. The range of passing is second to none in this league from what I saw last year.

“He’s a big player for us so we will give him as long as we possibly can.

“He’s going to be an important player for us again this season so it’s important we make sure that we don’t do something stupid.

“So if it’s not right for the weekend we won’t push it.

“As for Ryan, he’s back running so that’s good.

“It was just a little tweak of his hamstring against Fylde. The lad himself knew straight away and we took him off, so he didn’t do any further damage.

“He’s back running so we’re happy with his progress. That gives us time to get him properly conditioned because obviously he missed a couple of weeks of pre-season while we were trying to get the deal done.”

Leeds United loanee Paudie O’Connor is another who missed out on the match at Crewe Alexandra last weekend through injury, but Bowyer has issued a positive update on his progress.

“He’s fine, no problem,” the Pool boss added.

“He’s been brilliant. I’ve just met his girlfriend and I didn’t know he was even capable of getting a girlfriend. But she’s a lovely girl.

“He’s done brilliant for us and has settled in ever so well.

“Again, he’s going to be another important player for us.”

O’Connor will be one of several players looking to make their league debut for the Seasiders today.

The defender has joined Blackpool on a season-long loan from Championship side Leeds, where he is said to be well thought of.

The centre-back has been handed the number five shirt.