Blackpool to hold late pitch inspection

Blackpool will hold a pitch inspection three hours before their scheduled 3pm kick-off against Liverpool on St Stephen's Day to see if the match can go ahead.

The Seasiders do not have undersoil heating at Bloomfield Road and despite covering the pitch there is still some doubt over whether the surface will be playable.

“Ground staff at Bloomfield Road have been working throughout the night and will continue to work round the clock to try to ensure that the fixture takes place,” said a statement on blackpoolfc.co.uk.

“While it has been well documented that the club does not have undersoil heating, several industrial hot air blowers have been sourced along with additional frost protection covers.

“The timing of the pitch inspection has been made in consultation with the Barclays Premier League, match referee Mike Oliver and officials from Liverpool.

“Club officials remain in regular contact with all parties and will continue to monitor the weather forecasts over the next 48 hours.”