Blackpool V Coventry at Bloomfield Road : Match Preview

31 January 2012 15:30
Lomana LuaLua faces a late fitness test on his hamstring injury before Blackpool host Coventry.

LuaLua missed the Seasiders' last-gasp 1-1 draw with Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup on Saturday with the problem and is hoping to be available as Ian Holloway's men return to league action.

Keith Southern was named in midfield and took the captain's armband against the Owls as he made a first appearance since having a testicular tumour removed in November.

However, the 27-year-old's return to first-team duty is likely to be curtailed after he suffered a gash to his ankle that required stitches at the weekend.

Southern's probable absence is expected to mean a return for skipper Barry Ferguson, who was rested in one of eight changes made by Holloway at against Wednesday.

Manager Andy Thorn has no fresh injury concerns as bottom side Coventry bid to make it back-to-back victories.

The Sky Blues have had a 10-day gap since their 3-1 home victory over Middlesbrough and Thorn admits that time has given his players an opportunity to shake off any knocks.

Alex Nimely, a recent loan signing from Manchester City, scored on his debut against Boro and is expected to lead the line with Clive Platt after the duo impressed in their first match in attack.

That means Freddy Eastwood, who has fully recovered from a calf problem, will have to be content with a place on the substitutes' bench once more.

Thorn is eyeing more transfers before Tuesday night's deadline but insists he will have to wait for other players to depart before that can happen.

Blackpool V Coventry - view commentary, squad, and statictics of the game live.

Source: PA