Who will start for Blackpool vs Rangers? Seasiders predicted line-up as injuries see options short

Blackpool are back in action at Bloomfield Road on Saturday as Scottish Premiership runners-up Rangers come to town.

Thousands of Gers supporters are expected to descend on the town as the Seasiders face another difficult test ahead of an important Championship campaign. Michael Appleton will take charge of the club for the third time this pre-season following a comfortable 2-0 win at Southport and a 4-0 defeat to Leeds United.

Blackpool are yet to make a signing so far this summer transfer window but are edging closer to a breakthrough on that front with Shamrock Rovers full back Andy Lyons and Manchester City winger Morgan Rogers just two of a number of targets. Appleton wants to see new bodies in as soon as possible and that need has only grown with the recent injury news.

The Seasiders are without any senior full-backs after news that Luke Garbutt has twisted his knee during the Scotland training camp, Appleton confirmed he would receive further news following assessment of the injury today but is unlikely to risk it regardless in pre-season. James Husband remains sidelined as he also steps up his recovery from injury, while the other remaining left back Reece James left to join Sheffield Wednesday on loan.

That leaves development squad full back, recently signed from Portsmouth, Harvey Hughes as the likely stand-in at left back after impressing during his performance against Leeds. On the right hand side there are similar concerns as Jordan Gabriel is likely to miss the start of the season due to a hamstring injury and with Dujon Sterling returning to Chelsea following his loan spell, there are no natural senior right backs to fill the void.

Young prospect Rob Apter has filled the right back role so far this