Blackpool chief executive praises team effort during coronavirus crisis

The last League One action took place on March 10 and the Seasiders squad have been away from the club for the past 11 weeks.

But they have kept their spirits up and maintained a sense of togetherness, which chief executive Ben Mansford says is vitally important.

He told The Gazette: “Neil Critchley and our head of sports science Ross Jones are in regular contact with the players and are constantly there for them.

“Neil and Ross have continued to work as have our entire recruitment team, senior office staff and our HR consultant Chris Green, though we’ve had to furlough most of the staff, like a lot of League One and Two clubs.

“The players have had non-compulsory training plans outlined to keep them ticking over, like they would have in a summer period, and they seem to be in fair spirits.

“I’d like to applaud captain Jay Spearing and the club’s PFA delegate, Mark Howard, for keeping the players updated and maintaining a healthy amount of contact via Zoom conferences and WhatsApp groups.”

Although there has not been a great deal of information to share with players during a period of uncertainty, Mansford believes it has been important to maintain dialogue and keep the squad involved.

He added: “There will be particular concern for players who are out of contract this summer or out on loan, but there is uncertainty for everyone.

“The sooner we get clarity we can address these situations.

“The uncertainty is not good for anyone and is putting a greater financial burden on (owner) Simon Sadler.

“I felt it was right for the club to involve the players in decisions, particularly when it comes to returning to training or playing because they will be the ones who are asked to do it.

“Mark and Jay have been excellent at getting the players together and it’s important that we engage with them.”