All or nothing for Blackpool

IAN HOLLOWAY will find no solace in defeat should Blackpool lose their fight for survival at Old Trafford tomorrow.

When the Tangerines were being tipped to be relegated from the Championship at the start of last season, the idea they would be facing Manchester United at the end of this one seemed preposterous. Even last summer, when Blackpool were preparing for their first top-flight campaign in three decades, few gave them any hope of travelling to United with their Premier League future still to be decided.

With by far the smallest playing budget of the 20 clubs, and the lowest average gate, Holloway has performed a minor miracle to reach this stage. However, telling the charismatic Bristolian what a good job he has done will not ease the pain should tomorrow teatime bring a return ticket to the championship.