Choice of captain a key decision for Blackpool boss Neil Critchley

Chris Maxwell, Ollie Turton, James Husband and Matty Virtue have all worn the armband in pre-season games and Critchley says he has an important decision to make.

The head coach told The Gazette: “I think there’s probably three or four candidates for that role but I’ve not made a decision yet.

“I wanted to assess the squad and have a look because I think the captain’s role is an important one.

“It’s got to be someone who is an extension of me on the pitch, of what I stand for and what the club represents as well, which is important.

“I want the people in the ground to be able to identify with the captain, so it’s an important job and I didn’t want to rush into a decision.”

Today's behind-closed-doors game is the first pre-season fixture for Everton, who completed their last Premier League campaign just four weeks ago.

Blackpool boss Critchley has virtually a full-strength squad to choose from and told the club website: “It will be a special occasion despite it being a pre-season game. For our lads to come up against some of the top players Everton have at their disposal will be a real test for us and something we can learn from.

“Our defensive organisation will undoubtedly get tested and it will likely be a case of how we manage without the ball at times.”