Michael Appleton issues opening day checklist as Blackpool take on Reading

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.

Paul Ince has been appointed permanent boss with the Royals who shipped seven goals across the two games against the Seasiders last campaign. A similar start here for Blackpool would really aid Appleton's bid to set the tone and get supporters onside with his vision but ultimately there are specific performance indicators he is looking for in these early weeks.

"I think for me it's been one of them where I think you've probably seen, in the three lesser games we've had over pre-season, what the players are capable of doing with the ball. We've had sporadic spells against Rangers, Leeds and Everton, definitely Rangers and Everton, where the players have been able to have spells and moments in the game where they dictate, switch the play and get our most attacking players on the ball," Appleton told

"For me that will be key, making sure we've got a