Stoke manager Tony Pulis has not been surprised by Blackpool's Carling Cup form now his old friend Ian Holloway is in charge at Bloomfield Road.
The teams meet in the Carling Cup and Pulis is a big admirer of Holloway, who he tips to become a legend by the seaside.
Blackpool thumped Wigan 4-1 in the second round and will travel to Stoke in confident mood after victories over Newcastle and Nottingham Forest.
Pulis, who is set to field his second-string side, said: "It's going to be a very tough game. Reidy (Stoke's assistant manager Peter Reid) saw them beat Newcastle and was very impressed.
"Blackpool are physically very strong and I'm not surprised they are giving everyone a run for their money. `Ollie' is building a good side and we will have our hands full."
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Fully agree with you about the extra importance of the league, Luke. But nothing much can be done about the 'energy' thing. If you're on the pitch you have to be fully committed. There's no time to worry about being injured. You can't 'half-play!' Hopefully, Blackpool's 'physical strength' to quote the Stoke manager, will be enough to see them through without any injury. Even as a 'Pool fan, I'm not so sure. Stoke's 'training' for this one consists of a year of tough Premiership matches against some of the best teams in the world. Here I go stating the obvious again. Up the 'Pool!
Stoke are good at home but if the mighty seasiders get a win i want to play the winner of Liverpool vs Leeds please at home. I would prefer a win at the weekend than tonight so dont use all your energy trying to beat these league is important this year!
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