Blackpool manager Steve Bruce is confident that attacker Ashley Fletcher will be fit to feature in tomorrow night’s Legaue One clash against Mansfield Town.
The Seasiders head to Nottinghamshire full of confidence after picking up their first points of the season on Saturday. A poor start to the new campaign saw them record defeats against Stevenage and Exeter City, conceding seven goals in the process.
They welcomed a new look Huddersfield Town to Bloomfield Road at the weekend, with Lee Grant’s team having won their opening two fixtures. A pulsating start to the game saw the hosts lead 3-2 after just 31 minutes, but they were made to work for the victory following the sending off of Niall Ennis nine minutes before the break.
It went from bad to worse shortly after when Ashley Fletcher was forced off with a hamstring complaint. However, Bruce’s side held on to pick up the win.
Fletcher Set For Instant Return
The 29-year-old has enjoyed a new lease of life since joining the Tangerines. Having seen his career stall prior to his arrival last summer, the former Sunderland man hit 11 league goals in his first season at his new club.
He opened his account for the season in the 4-1 defeat against Exeter on August 9th whilst also played a hand in Lee Evans’ striker against Huddersfield. It was feared that he may be set for a spell on the sidelines but Bruce has allieviated those concerns. Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s game, the veteran boss said:
“Ash is having a scan this afternoon.
“He reported positivity today but we’re erring on caution. We’re all pretty confident that he could be available tomorrow, and if that’s the case – good.
“With muscles you never ever know. He wanted to try and see it through to half time but we took that option away from him because we didn’t want to make it any worse.
“Let’s see what the scan reveals and let’s hope it reveals nothing or very little.”
Writer’s View
This is excellent news for Blackpool, who will see Ashley Fletcher has pivotal to their plans this season. With Ennis suspended tomorrow night, they were fears that they could visit Field Mill without any of their first choice attackers. This is a welcome boost, with Bruce undoubtedly keen to build on Saturday’s huge win over a team which will be pushing for promotion. The manager is targeting a top six finish and knows they need to carry on their momentum ahead of the long trip to Plymouth Argyle at the weekend.
