Blackpool head coach Neil Critchley knows that an FA Cup upset against West Brom would be the highlight of a turbulent first year in management. Just two matches in to his new role the League One season was suspended – to be eventually cancelled – and Critchley was left wondering what lay ahead. After a significant turnaround in playing staff he is still, barely five months into the season, trying to instil an identity at the club. But a third round tie at home to Premier League strugglers West Brom gives Critchley the opportunity to test his methods against top-flight opposition and perhaps spring a surprise. “There is always something riding on it, there is no game which is classed as a free hit.”

Source: Express January 08, 2021 12:56 UTC