Blackpool to keep Arsenal defender Daniel Ballard on loan for rest of season

The Northern Ireland international first joined the Seasiders in October, shortly after turning 21, on a deal due to expire at the end of this month.

The commanding central defender has made eight Blackpool appearances to date, seven of them in League One.

A combination of international call-ups (he has five senior caps) and suspension saw him miss almost all of Blackpool's November fixtures, though he has started Pool's last three League One matches.

Ballard told the club website: “I’m extremely happy to extend my loan until the end of the season.

"I’ve enjoyed my time here so far and I want to continue helping the team push up the table.

“I’ve felt comfortable from the first minute I arrived and, in my mind, this is the best place for me to be playing my football at the moment.”

Blackpool boss Neil Critchley said: "Daniel plays like a leader, with real character and personality on the pitch. He’s been terrific to work with and will continue to improve and get better.

“We thank Arsenal for entrusting us with Daniel’s development and now look forward to having him for the second part of the season.”