Blackpool boss Neil Critchley’s excitement at his first game being against Fleetwood Town

Simon Grayson’s successor will be in the dugout at Highbury on Saturday for his first game after being appointed to the role on Monday.

He won’t, however, be stood opposite Joey Barton with the Fleetwood boss serving the second of his two-game touchline ban.

Speaking about his first game during his unveiling earlier in the week, Critchley said: “It’s a great game to look forward to. I can’t wait, I wish we were kicking off tomorrow.

“Whoever it would have been, honestly – it’s my first game in charge of Blackpool so we could have been playing anyone – I’d be looking forward to it.

“Bring on Saturday, 3pm at Fleetwood. I can’t wait.”

Critchley has been given the title of head coach, rather than manager, but the 41-year-old insists that suits him just fine.

“That’s where I feel most comfortable, out on the training pitch working with the players,” he added.

“I’m looking forward to being on the grass and developing the players, but also developing the philosophy of the football club. That’s going to be really important for us moving forward.

“The relationships are so important because they have to believe in me if they’re going to play the way I want them to play.

“That connection with the players is the most important thing, as it is with the staff as well.”

Critchley departs Anfield with the blessing of Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who struck up a close relationship with him during his time on Merseyside.

“Jurgen has always been so supportive of myself and all the younger players,” Critchley said.

“The opportunities he has given me, this season in particular, have been incredible and something I’ll never forget.

“He’s wished me all the best and he thinks I’m ready for the challenge. I think we have one new Blackpool supporter as well.”

Critchley has signed a contract until the end of the 2022/23 season.