Blackpool v Crystal Palace

There’s always something a little bit different when a Neil Warnock team comes to town.

Maybe it’s the soundbites, possibly the good football his teams generally play or the banter the fans can have with the former Sheffield United manager. Last season in the game at Bloomfield Road, Warnock – in his first game as Palace manager – tripped over as he retreated from a trademark touchline rant, much to the amusement of supporters behind the dugout. This is the type of light-hearted fun that can be expected tomorrow. After all, as the cliché goes – we’re in an entertainment business!

But Warnock isn’t just a funny man with a big gob. He worked absolute miracles at Selhurst Park last term, taking The Eagles from close to the relegation spots to a playoff semi final defeat to Bristol City.

The outspoken personality does create enemies though, as we all know. Ian Evatt’s post match interview after the draw away at Palace back in March is a prime example. The big defender was left angered after Warnock’s over enthusiastic appeals.

‘Mr Warnock shouldn’t wind up referees like he does,’ said Evatt. ‘He gets on their case and in the end decisions go against him but neither of those were penalties.

‘The first one, if anything, was obstruction outside the area. And the second one he just jumped over me. I don’t think he dived but he was trying to avoid me. Neither were penalties.’

The Seasiders currently sit two points and three places above the London club – with a win for Simon Grayson’s men likely to lift them within goal difference of the playoffs, if not nestled into the top six.

Last Year

Blackpool 1 – 1 Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace 0 – 0 Blackpool

Blackpool Team News:

‘Pool are still without striker Daniel Nardiello and defender Stephen Crainey, who are still both set for lengthy spells on the sidelines.

Mo Camara is back in contention, and battles with Danny Coid for the left back spot.

Steve Kabba is likely to be back in the squad, but set for a place on the bench after Alan Gow’s heroics in midweek.

Player to watch: Alan Gow

The on loan Rangers striker is the man of the moment – can he carry on his great form and lift ‘Pool into the top six?

Crystal Palace Team News:

Big target man Alan Lee is out with a hamstring injury, which is good news for Rob Edwards, who struggled against the height and power of Rob Hulse on Tuesday.

Craig Beattie is expected to carry on in attack, with Danny Butterfield to keep his place in midfield.

Player to watch: Victor Moses

The teenage sensation has been a revelation for The Eagles since his introduction to the first team last year. Tricky, lively and with a killer end product, he could prove a tough customer for the Blackpool fullbacks.