Barker Not Banned After All!

After his booking against Derby County last Wednesday night, it was widely repored that Shaun Barker would serve a one game ban this weekend for five yellow cards.

However, Blackpool club secretary Matt Williams speaking to the official site said:

‘Websites such as Soccerbase receive their information from The Press Association and their information has Shaun picking up a yellow against Preston North End, however, our records show it was Claus Jorgensen as the man who picked up a yellow card not Shaun. ‘Reggie’ had convinced himself that he was suspended so we cross checked the booking swith the FA and even dug out both the referees report and the DVD from the Preston game and although Shaun received a ticking off from referee Mike Dean for a foul on Ross Wallace he didn’t actually get shown the yellow card and he is free to play. Obviously Shaun is delighted to be available. We have also asked PA to correct their error.’

The news will come as a blow to fellow defender Ian Evatt who would have been hoping that Barker’s suspension would lead to his recall.

Meanwhile, in other news, the club have announced that the 3 for 2 ticket scheme will run again for the home games against Norwich, Southampton and Plymouth.

The official site reports that ‘Supporters who purchase tickets for the Seasiders’ games against Norwich (7 March) and Southampton (21 March) will automatically receive a ticket for the game against Plymouth Argyle (4 April) absolutely free.’

Supporters under the age of 19 can also attend the Plymouth game for free with a paying adult, whilst season ticket holders are being encouraged to bring a friend to the game: upon production of Voucher D from your season ticket book, you can purchase an adult ticket for the Plymouth game for just £10, a senior citizen’s ticket for just £5 or an under 19’s for free.

However, there is no news on the future of caretaker manager Tony Parkes.