Blackpool vs Crewe Alexandra - Emmerson Boyce expected to make Blackpool return

Posted Friday, October 23, 2015 by PA

Blackpool expect Emmerson Boyce will be able to return to the fold ahead of Crewe's visit.

The 36-year-old full-back missed the midweek draw with Millwall because of a hamstring injury but was back in the gym on Thursday with a view to being included in Saturday's squad.

Seasiders boss Neil McDonald rates striker Martin Paterson as "touch and go" with a hamstring issue but reported no new injuries from Tuesday's game.

Liverpool loanee Lloyd Jones is the only long-term absentee with an ankle problem.

Rock-bottom Crewe could have forward Lauri Dalla Valle and left-back Stephen Kingsley back in action.

Dalla Valle, who missed Tuesday's 0-0 draw at Burton, is in contention to make his return on Saturday as he continues his recovery from the back problem sustained in the 1-0 loss to Gillingham last weekend.

Kingsley injured his foot in that game but Tuesday's contest might be the only one he is forced to sit out as well.

The fit-again James Jones made his first appearance of the season as a substitute against Burton and is now pushing for a starting berth, while fellow midfielder Billy Bingham (hamstring) and defender Harry Davis (knee) remain unavailable.