Blackpool manager Steve Bruce has revealed that he has his sights set on promotion from League One, although admits it will take time.
The 63-year-old returned to management after a near two-year break in September, replacing Neil Critchley. The Tangerines made the decision to make the change after losing their first two games of the season and Bruce’s appointment sparked an immediate upturn in fortunes.
After going unbeaten in his first five games, the former West Bromwich Albion boss has seen his side become inconsistent. They embarked on an eight game winless run between October and November, but travelled to Wrexham on Boxing Day having won three and drawn one of their previous four.
It looked as if Blackpool may earn a valuable point at the STōK Cae Ras, but a contentious penalty decision saw Wrexham snatch the victory late on.
Bruce Expecting Big Test Against Birmingham
Perhaps the last team Bruce wants to face following that defeat against Wrexham is former team Birmingham City. The Blues have won their last six to move to the top of League One and their ex-boss knows it will be a tough ask at St Andrew’s. Speaking to official club media, he said:
“It will be a big test against Birmingham, make no mistake.
“They are the best team in the league and we’re under no illusions that it’s going to be a very difficult game. However, if we play like we have done against the likes of Wrexham recently, then we can give anybody a good game.”
Continuing, Bruce revealed that he still has his sights set on promotion with Blackpool, although admits it will take time:
“Having said that, it’s important that we focus on ourselves and I’m more interested in what we can achieve and how we can get back to where we want to be. It’s going to take time, but we don’t want to be in this division, so there’s a real determination from everyone to push this Club forwards, and it’s another good opportunity for us on Sunday.”
Writer’s View
Blackpool narrowly missed out on the play-offs last season and entered this season hoping to go one better. They currently sit 16th in the table but more importantly, are just seven points off the top six. This afternoon’s game is somewhat of a free hit but if they can replicate their form from before Christmas during the second half of the campaign, they could make a late claim for a play-off place.
