Steve Bruce and Blackpool facing immediate concern ahead of League One campaign

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Blackpool are set to kick off their League One campaign this weekend when they host Stevenage, with many expecting a home victory.

Steve Bruce has had his first pre-season as the boss of the Seasiders, making quite the impression over the summer, building upon his campaign last year.

The highly experienced manager has lofty ambitions, as he hopes to bring about promotion for the club, with Don Goodman believing Blackpool to be the dark horses for the League One title.

Blackpool have made some astute signings as they brought in Northern Ireland international Bailey Peacock-Farrell and a League One cheat code in the shape of George Honeyman.

However, Steve Bruce is already facing an immediate concern before the season has even got underway.

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Blackpool are without five players for the opening game due to injury

The Tangerines have found themselves suffering a minor injury crisis before the season has even begun at Bloomfield Road.

It has been reported in the Blackpool Gazette that they will be without five players for their League One opener with Stevenage.

Ireland international CJ Hamilton is an obvious absentee, as he dislocated his shoulder in a friendly against West Brom.

Albie Morgan has missed the majority of pre-season so his absence is not a surprise.

The team will be missing Tom Bloxham, Danny Imray, and club captain James Husband.

Steve Bruce’s thoughts ahead of the season

Bruce understands the injury list does not make the early season fixtures easy, especially when the club need to play the likes of Huddersfield Town, Plymouth Argyle, and Luton Town in the opening month.

However, he is remaining optimistic and asking fans to enjoy the ride this season, similar to how they feel at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

He said: “Let’s enjoy the rollercoaster.

“Let’s look forward to the challenge and what it is going to be. We know it is going to be difficult, but with what we are trying to do and what we are trying to achieve, we need to ensure we are up and around those top six.”