Still no return date for Pool strikers Vassell and Cullen

The Seasiders have had to do without Vassell since the 2-1 defeat against Rotherham United at the start of December.

The striker, who remains the club's top scorer with eight goals this season, is still some way off returning from his hamstring injury.

Cullen, meanwhile, hasn't featured for Blackpool since August.

Since then, the 25-year-old has undergone an operation on his hamstring.

Blackpool have struggled for goals without their first-choice strikers, and Bowyer has spoken of his desire to bring in another forward in the January transfer window to replace their goals.

“Kyle and Mark are out running on the grass, so that’s progress," Bowyer said.

“In terms of an actual date or time, I couldn’t give you that at the moment.

“There’s no further injuries which at this moment in time we don’t need because of the size of our squad.

“But we were delighted to have Ollie Turton back (against Rochdale) and he just picked up from where he had left off.

“The level of his performance the other day was outstanding.

“He cramped up at the end on a heavy pitch and having been out for close to a month, but he’s come through that okay and we’re looking for him to feature again this weekend."

Bowyer also revealed that Jim McAlister could be involved in the Blackpool squad for Wednesday's trip to Shrewsbury Town in the Checkatrade Trophy.

The midfielder, who has been out injured since breaking his leg against Colchester last February, was named as a substitute against Mansfield Town in the last round.

Bowyer added: “With Jim he’s had a good couple of weeks where he appears to be moving a hell of a lot better.

“The Checkatrade Trophy game against Shrewsbury next week is certainly one we can look at to involve him in the squad.”