Appleton surprised by appointment

Former Portsmouth boss Michael Appleton conceded even he was surprised to be appointed the new manager of npower Championship side Blackpool.

Appleton moved to Bloomfield Road as successor to Ian Holloway, who ended a highly-successful three-and-a-half year stint with the Seasiders to join Championship counterparts Crystal Palace at the weekend.

He told Sky Sports News: "I'm absolutely delighted. It's an opportunity that I didn't see coming but one that I'll hopefully take with both hands."

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