Holloway talks up survival and beyond

Blackpool boss Ian Holloway believes his side could be set for a long and prosperous stay in the top flight should they avoid the drop this season.

Speaking ahead of their crunch home clash with Stoke on Saturday, Holloway said surviving a first season in the English Premier League was a monumental challenge for newly promoted clubs.

“The first season is never an easy journey, but just look at the team we are playing today,” Holloway said.

“Stoke came up to the Premier League three years ago and you can see how they have grown each year.”

“But even they struggled in their first season.”

“Basically you just have to try to stay up your first year and then take it from there. You build the best you can.”

“Stoke are in the FA Cup final now, which is marvellous, and shows what can be done.”

Blackpool have captured the imagination of football lovers this term, with a bold attacking style of play that has been fantastic to watch.

But Holloway’s squad has started to feel the pinch as the season wore on, and they are now 17th with just goal difference keeping them out of the drop zone.

Nevertheless, Holloway is proud of what his men have achieved so far this season.

“It was always going to be tough,” Holloway said. “But I think the club has risen to the challenge.”

“What we’ve achieved in this short period of time is incredible.”

Holloway said that despite the pressure of Premier League management, he would not trade jobs with anybody.

“I am not scared at all by the last four games, and I think we can get the points we need,” he said.

“I am still loving my job and relishing the next few weeks. How could I not enjoy it?”

“I get to play football manager for real, instead of sat at home on my computer talking to my mates.”