Blackpool defender must play a waiting game

Turton has been Blackpool’s full-back of choice for the majority of the campaign, but he dropped out of contention in January after testing positive for coronavirus.

Since then, Gabriel has come into the side, played six matches on the spin and barely put a foot wrong, excelling in the recent wins against Rochdale and Portsmouth in particular.

While Gabriel looks set to start once again at Charlton Athletic tomorrow, Critchley has been quick to remind Turton that things can often change quickly in football.

“Ollie didn’t do anything wrong,” Pool’s head coach told The Gazette.

“He got Covid unfortunately, so had to miss 10 days. During that time, Jordan came in and performed really well.

“He’s taken his opportunity and his last few performances have been outstanding.

“Ollie just has to be patient, but there’s some really good competition in that position between the two of them.

“I’m lucky I have two really good players who can play there. Ollie has also shown he can play different positions as well.”

Gabriel, on loan from Championship side Nottingham Forest, has made 20 appearances in six months with the Seasiders, scoring his one goal to date in the FA Cup second round win at Harrogate Town.

The 22-year-old also delivered a magnificent display in last Saturday’s 1-0 victory at Fratton Park.

He wasn’t the only one, though, with fellow defenders Dan Ballard and James Husband also combining well as part of a new-look centre-back partnership.

Critchley added: “They were both excellent, as were the whole team. I wouldn’t want to single just those two out.

“Everyone played their part. It was a real team performance playing against the quality that Portsmouth have got, especially at the front end of the pitch.

“So to keep a clean sheet away from home and nullify their threats was really pleasing.”

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 per month for the first two months. Try us today by clicking here