Panther Hobson returns after five game ban

Andy Hobson is back for Blackpool after completing a five-match suspension.

The experienced prop returns just at the right time as Martin Crompton’s men continue to chase Co-operative Championship One’s top spot.

Tony Benson has doubts over a number of his Oldham squad, and Luke Sutton is still a fortnight away from a return to action.

“It’s just a case of managing some blokes at this stage of the season,” said Benson.

The Oldham coach insists that Sunday’s game is crucial to the club’s chances of automatic promotion.

He said: “If we don’t knock this one over then everything we’ve done in the past loses its impetus. It’s a game we’ll be giving our all towards.

“Blackpool have spent a lot of money and have got a quality side across the park.

“They’re always very difficult to play against because they can score from anywhere, but we’re looking forward to the change of playing on a nice big pitch.”