Blackpool boss Neil Critchley admits injuries are part and parcel of strange season

Neil Critchley believes Blackpool’s issues with hamstring injuries this season are a sign of the times.
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Marvin Ekpiteta became the latest player to injure a hamstring in last week’s win against Rochdale.

The centre-back, who had started every league game up to that point, is now facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Neil Critchley says: I'm seeing players suffer muscle injuries all over the placeNeil Critchley says: I'm seeing players suffer muscle injuries all over the place
Neil Critchley says: I'm seeing players suffer muscle injuries all over the place
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Daniel Gretarsson, Keshi Anderson and CJ Hamilton have also encountered hamstring problems this term.

But in a congested and stop-start season, Critchley concedes little can be done to avoid this type of injury.

Ahead of last night’s home clash with Doncaster Rovers, head coach Critchley said: “Right across the country I’m seeing players suffer muscle injuries all over the place. You have to be very careful how you assess the injuries because there are so many factors.

“You think about training, disruption of schedules and games, plus the amount of games we’re playing.

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“But we’ve coped so far and I don’t see any reason why we won’t cope between now and the end of the season. We’re getting some players back as well, so that should make us stronger in the next few weeks.”

The Seasiders have coped well without key players weeks, refusing to use the absentees as an excuse. At one point, nine or 10 Blackpool players were forced to self-isolate after positive Covid tests.

But rather than dwell on the problems, Critchley would rather focus on finding a solution.

“We just get on with it, no problem,” he added. “That’s the way I want to work – you try to make the best of any challenge that is presented to you.

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“We’ve had our fair share of challenges this season but I’d like to think my experience at other clubs has prepared me for it.

“You can always find a solution from within if you’re prepared and you train properly. Then you have the comfort that you’ve prepared properly and other people in the squad are ready to go if required.

“We’ve shown that this season, even on Saturday (at Portsmouth). Players are ready to step in and take their opportunity.”

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