Blackpool bring in Oldham physio to replace Phil Horner who left after 20 years in the role

The 40-year-old replaces Phil Horner, who departed Bloomfield Road earlier this month after a two-decade stint as the club’s physio.

Irwin, who has also previously worked for Middlesbrough, has held the position of first-team physiotherapist at Oldham for the past four years.

“I’m delighted to get the opportunity to work at such a great club and I hope to be part of a very successful future,” Irwin said.

“The owner and board of directors have some extremely exciting plans and it’s a great time to be joining the club. I can’t wait to get started.”

Head coach Neil Critchley added: “I’m pleased to welcome Stuart as the club’s new head of medical services.

“His knowledge and expertise in physiotherapy and medical matters will be crucial to the team going forward and we’re delighted to have someone of his calibre joining the club.

“I very much look forward to working with him in the future.”

Horner left his position at the beginning of June, bringing an end to a 30-year association with the Seasiders.

The 53-year-old had previously played in defence and midfield for the Seasiders, making over 200 appearances over six years in the 1990s.

Horner was a member of the Blackpool team which won promotion from the old division four via the play-offs in 1992.

In his role as physio, he would play a part in four more successful play-off campaigns, including the club's glorious rise to the Premier League a decade ago.

Horner was one of a handful of casualties of the club’s recent backroom restructure, which also saw secretary Steve Edwards and first-team analyst Nathan Salmon depart.