Blackpool boss explains why Arsenal loanee Dan Ballard was missing for Fylde Coast clash against Fleetwood Town

Blackpool have been dealt an injury blow with defender Dan Ballard.

The Arsenal loanee was a surprise absentee from Blackpool’s squad for today’s 1-0 win against Fleetwood Town.

Speaking to The Gazette post-match, Pool boss Neil Critchley revealed the 21-year-old has picked up an injury.

“Unfortunately Dan felt a bit of muscle soreness. It was after the game on Tuesday but he didn’t feel it until Thursday,” he said.

“He experienced the soreness before but unfortunately it’s turned out to be a little bit worse than that, so he’s going to be missing for a little period of time.

“That’s unfortunate because he’s obviously done well for us, but Daniel Gretarsson stepped in and was outstanding.

“We’re blessed we have some good players in the squad, because we’re going to need them.”

Ballard took a heavy knock during Tuesday night’s win against Portsmouth, receiving two to three minutes of treatment - but Critchley says this was a separate issue.

“It wasn’t related to the knock he got in the game on Tuesday. It was a fatigue injury,” he added.

“He was hoping and we were hoping it was going to be okay. He’s been for a scan and it’s slightly worse than we would have hoped it to be.

“But it’s not serious either, so it’ll be a little period of time. Hopefully we can welcome him back to a winning team in a couple of weeks.”

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