Bloomfield Road will have its capacity increased to 17,600

Blackpool's home game against Wigan on the opening day of the Premier League season has been switched to an away match against the same opponents.

The move has been made in case Blackpool fail to complete work on upgrading the East Stand at Bloomfield Road by Saturday 14 August.

"This is the only Blackpool fixture that will be affected," said a Premier League statement.

"This decision will give both clubs and fans maximum time to plan accordingly."

Blackpool won the Championship play-off against Cardiff last season to earn promotion and their first season in the top-flight since 1971.

And, despite asking for an away game to start their campaign, they were drawn to play Wigan at home.

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However, the Premier League have decided to switch the fixture as work continues on improving Bloomfield Road and getting its capacity up to 17,600.

"The board felt it was important to take this decision as early as possible if there was any potential for Blackpool FC's stadium not being ready for the first match of the season," said the Premier League statement.

"The board would like to put on record its thanks to both Wigan Athletic FC and Wigan RL [rugby league] whose flexibility in the circumstances has been extremely helpful."

Blackpool will travel to Arsenal on 21 August before the first home game of the season against Fulham on 28 August.

The club's home fixture against Wigan is now scheduled for Saturday 16 April 2011.

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