New Blackpool manager Michael Appleton has revealed his surprise at being given the job.

The former Portsmouth boss was named as the Seasiders chief on Wednesday, with the 36-year-old signing a one-year rolling contract at Bloomfield Road in place of the departed Ian Holloway.

Despite his shock at his appointment, Appleton is keen to meet the players and get his career at Blackpool started.

"I'm absolutely delighted. It's an opportunity that I didn't see coming but one that I'll hopefully take with both hands," said Appleton.

"It was a situation where there was a lot of speculation regarding myself and other jobs not too far away from here over recent weeks, but I think an opportunity to get back into the Championship at a club who have been very competitive over recent seasons was one that I didn't feel I could turn down.

"I met a few of the coaching staff a little bit earlier, we just had a bit of a chat and I got a feel for the place. I'm just desperate to meet the players now and crack on with the job."

Appleton has previously worked as assistant manager to Chelsea chief Roberto Di Matteo and England boss Roy Hodgson.