No freebies for Blackpool

Ian Holloway is furious at claims Blackpool could stay up this season because they will face an under-strength Manchester United side.

Blackpool are 18th and could be safe with a win at Old Trafford on the final day of the season on Sunday – although only West Brom have taken a point there so far this season.

It has been suggested Sir Alex Ferguson’s side could be punished for fielding a weakened team against Blackpool, considering they have their Champions League final clash with Barcelona six days later.

And Holloway is angry at the suggestion that Ferguson is not bothered about the match against Blackpool and also feels his side have been undermined.

“They will be relieved if we lose and get relegated,” said Holloway.

“Then I am not badgering them. I am so annoyed. Sir Alex Ferguson is a winner. He would never dream of not being interested in winning any match.”

“That man deserves to pick whatever team he wants to pick. No one should question it. Look at his record. Those people running the game, what planet are they on? They must have beamed down from planet Zarf. They are not in the right world.”

And Holloway believes his side is capable of beating this season’s Premier League champions, regardless of what team they field.

“They think we can only beat Manchester United if they are weak. What a load of baloney. Unfortunately, that is what we are dealing with,” Holloway said.

“We nearly beat them when they had a full team. We were 2-0 up and should have had a penalty – that goes in and we probably win.”

United fielded a weakened side against Hull City on the final day of the 2008/09 season – with the Champions League final against Barcelona in mind – yet still managed to win 1-0.

Blackpool could stay up even if they lose at Old Trafford, as a heavy defeat for Birmingham at Tottenham would mean relegation Alex McLeish’s men on goal difference.

Blackpool have no fresh injury concerns for the trip to Old Trafford, with Chris Basham (broken leg) and David Carney (shoulder) remain sidelined.