Blackpool turn to Appleton as new manager

Blackpool have named Michael Appleton as their new manager after reaching an agreement for his release from Portsmouth.

Appleton moves to Bloomfield Road as successor to Ian Holloway, who joined Crystal Palace at the weekend.

The 36-year-old former Manchester United youngster has impressed in his first managerial role in difficult circumstances at Portsmouth, despite overseeing the financially stricken club's relegation to League One last term.

Appleton previously worked at West Bromwich as assistant under Roberto Di Matteo and Roy Hodgson.