EFL Trophy tie gives Bowyer the blues

Blackpool boss Gary Bowyer has expressed his frustration at having to play two cup games in three days.
Pool boss Gary BowyerPool boss Gary Bowyer
Pool boss Gary Bowyer

The Seasiders head to Goodison Park tonight to face an Everton U21 side in their final group game in the Checkatrade Trophy.

With all four group A sides having three points, Pool will progress to the knockout stages with a win.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Blackpool must select at least five players who started Sunday’s FA Cup win over Kidderminster and Bowyer said: “The competition has not been well thought out.

“To move our FA Cup game to Sunday and then expect us to field five of those players on Tuesday is just crazy. We’ll deal with it and get on with it, but I’m not a big fan, for sure.”

Pool have beaten Cheltenham and lost to Bolton in the tournament and Bowyer sees the game against a youthful Everton as an unwanted distraction.

He added: “I was able to make as many changes as I wanted for Sunday but for this one I can’t. That needs a bit of looking into because I’m sure managers up and down the country are saying the same.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Among those fringe players likely to get a run-out is Danny Philliskirk, a substitute in the last four games.

He wasted a gilt-edged chance against Kidderminster, having replaced the injured Jamille Matt, and is yet to score this season.

Bowyer said: “Danny wants a goal and he needs a game. I thought it was right to bring him on, with his ability going forward and the talents he brings defensively. I think everyone was wishing for it to go in for him.”

If tonight’s 7.30pm tie is level after 90 minutes, a penalty shoot-out will determine which club goes through.