BLACKPOOL are facing an injury and suspension crisis as the club reaches its two biggest games of the year to date: the FA Cup tie against Arsenal (Dec 13) and league derby against arch-rivals Preston North End (Dec 18).

Loan striker Brian Quailey looks set to miss both clashes after being struck down by a hamstring injury just 15 minutes into the game against Notts County in the Auto Windscreens Shield.

Leading scorer John Murphy will miss the Preston match after being red-carded against Wrexham (Dec 4) - unless the card is overturned.

Steve Bushell already misses the PNE match after picking up his fifth booking of the season.

And Brett Ormerod's long-term injury means that the Seasiders will be down to the bare bones in the attacking department.

Young starlet Adam Nowland looks set to fill the gap in both matches, but manager Nigel Worthington could also opt for winger Junior Bent or, as he has previously this season, centre-back Clark Carlisle.

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