Gustafsson is drafted in for Belle Vue showdown

Lewis Blackbird will hope to continue his good form against Belle Vue on Saturday

He takes the place of captain Cameron Woodward who is riding in a Speedway GP qualifying round.

The Swedish rider is an Eastbourne asset and is riding this year on loan at Swindon.

Lifestyle Eagles’ co-promoter and team manager Trevor Geer said, “Simon had a great match here a couple of weeks ago for Swindon.

“He was on fire and we hope he will do the same for us on Saturday against Belle Vue.”

Geer always consideres club assets first when making a decision on choosing a guestand he is expecting Saturday’s visitors to pose a tough challenge.

“It makes sense if it is the best choice. Your own asset will feel at home as part of the Eastbourne team,” he added.

“Belle Vue turned it on in the away fixture back in April and we only just managed to get the three league points.

“I expect a similar tough challenge this week.

“Like us, Belle Vue have a very strong home record this year and it is vital for our hopes that we take another win and three points.”

Teams: (in alphabetical order)

Eagles: Dan Halsey, Lewis Blackbird, Simon Gustafsson (Guest for Cameron Woodward), Joonas Kylmakorpi, Timo Lahti, Mikkel Michelsen, Bjarne Pedersen.

Aces: Ben Barker (Guest for Craig Cook), Stefan Nielsen, Scott Nicholls, Michael Palm Toft, Lee Payne, Davey Watt (Guest for Matej Zagar), Richie Worrall.