Michael Appleton hopes for Thomas Ince, Alex Baptiste stay

Blackpool boss Michael Appleton has admitted that he is hoping for Thomas Ince and Alex Baptiste to stay beyond the transfer window.

Speculation has surrounded Ince's future for some time, along with Baptiste's link with Leicester City.

Appleton insists that he has no problems with playing the pair after starting them in Blackpool's 1-1 draw with Fulham in the FA Cup third round.

"I certainly hope they will stay. To me, they did not look fazed about anything going on off-field," said Appleton.

Speaking about Ince's form, he added: "He is going through an indifferent period because of all the speculation but he is coping with it really well.

"Liverpool made an offer two weeks ago but we have not received anything since. It was a case of, 'That's not enough. You'll have to do better if you want him'. Until that changes, he will stay here."

Blackpool face Charlton in the Championship next Saturday.