‘Bit of spice’ – Charlton head coach Appleton looking forward to facing former club Blackpool

Charlton head coach Michael Appleton is looking forward to facing his former club Blackpool at The Valley on Saturday.

The Addicks boss had two spells in charge of their opponents this weekend.

Blackpool was Appleton’s last posting before he took the Charlton job, he was sacked in January 2023 – lasting just seven months.

The Addicks are unbeaten since the former Manchester United and West Brom midfielder took charge last month and thumped Exeter City 4-1 on Tuesday night.

Appleton said: “The reality is that four weeks in, performances are not really important. They will come over time and get better. You need to pick up points – that is the single most important thing, because with points you get confidence and with points you get better.

“I’m really, really happy – two home wins and two draws on the road.

“It’s a really difficult game coming up on Saturday against my former club. I’m sure that will bring a bit of spice into it. I’m looking forward to it and if you walked into that dressing room (on Tuesday night), I’m sure they’d say the same.”

Asked about the reception he expects from the travelling Blackpool fans, Appleton said:  “I’m not worried about anything like that – I quite enjoy it.

“Our full focus will be on how we can beat Blackpool and break them down. They are very, very difficult to break down.”

PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS