Michael Appleton outlines Blackpool tactical plan as set system the key to Championship success

Blackpool will know exactly what system they will be playing on a weekly basis this season.

The Seasiders new Head Coach Michael Appleton has had years of success during his time at Oxford United and Lincoln City using his 4-3-3 system and is in no mood to change anytime soon. Neil Critchley was praised for his adaptability during his time in charge but you would be hard pressed to form an idea of a set identity being played out from week-to-week.

Appleton is clear on his principles, confident in his approach and has already brought in new additions who he believes best compliment that system, with more hopefully in the pipeline. Manchester City loanee central midfielder Lewis Fiorini fit in perfectly against Salford City as one of the eight's in the two advanced roles, whilst Rhys Williams' Jurgen Klopp education will certainly aid Blackpool's approach to playing out from the back.

The system and the principles behind it need confidence and buy-in from those in the side if it is to be a success and the early signs are positive. Speaking to Lancs Live, Appleton outlined the individual roles of the midfield three in his system and agreed on the importance of the balance of play in that regard.

"Yeah absolutely. The two eight's are obviously very different in terms of wanting them to get beyond the striker at times if we can and make those runs but at the same time, when the ball goes into the striker, the opposite eight has got to link.

"The six is a very specific role at the end of the day they have two jobs. One is to get us going, get us playing and always be available and two, when we're in a bit of trouble and we're getting hit on the counter or in transition, he's in a position where he can stop the opposition