Premier League to investigate Blackpool changes

Blackpool are readying themselves for an investigation by English Premier League officials after manager Ian Holloway made 10 changes to his side for Wednesday’s 3-2 loss away to Aston Villa.

Despite all the alterations, Blackpool still only lost out to a late header from Villa’s James Collins in a match that took place just days before the newly-promoted Tangerines face basement club West Ham.

Last season the EPL gave Wolves a suspended 25,000 pounds (29,400 euros) fine after manager Mick McCarthy made 10 changes to his side for a game at Manchester United.

Premier League rules oblige teams to field their strongest possible starting XIs in every match.

Holloway insisted he had not fielded a weakened team but had made the changes in response to Blackpool’s busy schedule.

Asked what he would do if, as a consequence, the league fined Blackpool, Holloway replied: “I’d pack it in. I can’t work for this madness. I would resign. They do not know what they’re talking about.”

Blackpool played West Brom last Monday and Everton last Saturday, and Wednesday’s match is set to be followed by this Saturday’s match in London against West Ham.

Meanwhile, Hammers boss Avram Grant insisted he had no problems with Hollway fielding a much-changed side against Villa.

“They did what they had to do for that (match),” Grant said.

“Also they have a bigger squad than us, and without injuries, so they could do it,” added the Israeli, whose team drew 2-2 with West Brom on Wednesday.