Michael Appleton is keen for his Blackpool side to express themselves on the ball against Reading. The Seasiders have had a frustrating summer with the departure of Neil Critchley and with a number of new signings failing to get over the line but now the outside noise can stop as the football returns.
Pre-season has showcased some positive signs of what Appleton's 4-3-3 system will bring to Bloomfield Road, particularly going forward.
Defensive instability has been a concern with right back still an area Blackpool remain short in on the opening day, although encouraging news on the fitness status of Jordan Gabriel means that area has become less of a priority for Appleton.
Reading have had a difficult time of things themselves with transfer embargo restraints meaning they have had to shop in a different way to rebuild a squad that lost some key assets at the end of last season.