Blackpool boss Neil Critchley still working on possible deals in final hours of transfer window

Blackpool have until 11pm to complete any further business, with the window closing a day later than usual due to January 31 falling on a Sunday.

Last week Pool boss Neil Critchley refused to rule out further dealings.

The head coach promised this month would be a quiet one compared to recent windows, suggesting there would be only be one or two incomings and one or two heading out.

That’s been the case so far, with the Seasiders bringing in Ellis Simms on loan from Everton and Kevin Stewart as a free agent.

Arsenal defenderDan Ballard has extended his loan until the end of the season.

In terms of outgoings, Nathan Shaw extended his loan spell with AFC Fylde only to be recalled last week, with the Coasters’ season suspended an not certain to resume.

Jamie Devitt cancelled his contract by mutual consent, freeing him up to join League Two side Barrow on a permanent deal and make his debut on Saturday.

Ryan Hardie also turned his loan spell at Plymouth Argyle into a permanent move, while it’s understood a League Two side has enquired about MJ Williams' availability.

Critchley said last Thursday that Blackpool’s transfer business isn’t necessarily done.

“We’re working,” he said. “There are still a few days to go and we’re always looking to improve the squad.

“January is difficult because teams are not going to let their best players walk out of the door halfway through the season.

“There’s an element of clubs wanting to protect themselves as well because of the situation we all find ourselves in.

“If we can identify those players we think will come and improve our squad, whether that be short term or medium term, then we will do that and that’s what we’re continuing to do between now and the end of the window.”

After an unplanned free weekend, the Seasiders return to action tomorrow night with a home game against Northampton Town.

It comes after Blackpool’s game against Burton Albion, originally due to be played at Bloomfield Road on Saturday, was called off after the Brewers informed the EFL on Thursday they were unable to fulfil the fixture due to positive Covid-19 cases.

That game has now been rearranged for a week tomorrow, February 9 (7pm kick-off).

The postponement meant Blackpool went through January without a home league game and must now play 24 games in just 96 days, an average of one every four days.

The Seasiders, who have only played nine home games this season compared to 13 away, haven’t hosted a league fixture at Bloomfield Road since the 3-2 victory against Hull City on December 15.

Blackpool have only three free midweeks for the remainder of the season.

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