Blackpool striker repaid head coach's faith with Burton Albion brace

The 23-year-old, who had to wait 12 games to get on the scoresheet, notched a double in Saturday’s 2-1 victory at the Pirelli Stadium.

His goals helped Pool secure a much-needed win, their first on the road since September 19, 2019.

“I’m delighted he’s off the mark and I’m delighted he’s with us at Blackpool,” Critchley told The Gazette.

“There were a number of factors in why we signed him. He had a very good season for Swindon last season where he scored a number of goals.

“He’s been unfortunate not to score until now, he’s had chances but it’s just not gone his way.

“I believe he will score goals for this football club and that’s primarily why I brought him here.

“He has really good instincts in and around the goal but it’s not just that, he can also link the play, he can keep the ball well and his workrate and his pressing ability from the front end of the pitch is exceptional.

“He works so hard for the team and with the age he is, he’s got his best years to come and he’s got more development to come.”

Yates’ impressive display came in a more central role alongside Gary Madine, with the two combining well as a pairing.

“It’s been demonstrated in the last week or so, but we’ll pick a team we think will give the opposition most problems,” Critchley added.

“In the week, we went with Oli Sarkic because we thought space would be in front of Wimbledon’s defence because they defend deep.

“Against Burton, we thought putting two centre-forwards up against their centre-halves would cause them problems and I think Gary and Jerry did cause them problems, combined well, worked off each other and were a real threat, a real handful.

“It doesn’t necessarily mean they will play together in every game.”

Critchley was also delighted with the displays of Pool’s two debutants, Daniel Gretarsson and Kenny Dougall.

“I thought both were excellent,” he said.

“Kenny has only been in the building two weeks, so for him to complete 90 minutes was a real bonus and, physically, he looked very good.

“He showed glimpses of his ability with the way he can control the ball and pass the ball, and he’ll bring a real composure to our team in time.

“It will take him a bit of time to get up to the speed and intensity of the game but when he does, he’ll be a very good player for us.

“For Daniel, at some point, we had to throw him in. He’s not had any pre-season games, he’s not had any reserve games, he’s just gone straight in.

“I thought the temperament he showed was excellent, even after his mishap for the own goal which was really unfortunate. His response afterwards was excellent.

“He’s a really calm, cool and collected defender. He’s mixed in with the boys straight away and I was delighted for him and Kenny.”

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