Michael Appleton is expecting a tough challenge this weekend, but admits it's one he and the rest of the squad are looking forward to.
The Seasiders welcome in-form Norwich City to Bloomfield Road on Saturday, and Michael Appleton is aware of how strong an opponent the Canaries can be.
"These are the tests you look forward to, make no mistake," he said.
"We'll know over the course of the next few weeks where we are in comparison to some of the best sides in this division, as we're set to play a few of them this month. It will be a great opportunity for the players and for the fans to continue to back us and almost be that 12th man on the day, because we're coming up against a top side.
"You've only got to look at the front three Norwich have to realise how dangerous they are. The difficulty that the likes of Teemu Pukki and Josh Sargent bring to you can be a real challenge at times, but if you can keep them quiet and make sure they have an off day, then hopefully you can get a positive result."
Ahead of the fixture, Appleton confirmed Keshi Anderson will be ruled a little longer than expected, after picking up a further injury during his recovery.
"Injury-wise, it's been a really tough few weeks," Appleton said.
"We all thought Keshi Anderson would make his return in this game. He was looking sharp and strong in training, but unfortunately picked up a quad injury on Saturday. That will keep him out for another few weeks.
"Rhys Williams has an issue with his shins as well, so we're a couple of bodies down for Saturday which is frustrating. However, Callum Wright has recovered from his injury and has been back in training, so he looks in good shape."