Jerry Yates gets whole Blackpool squad buzzing says strike partner Gary Madine

Having started the season with a 4-3-3 system that saw Yates lead the line with wingers either side of him, Seasiders boss Neil Critchley has reverted to a 4-4-2 formation in recent weeks.

This has seen Yates and Madine partnered in attack, a combination that is working well.

They shared the goals in the 3-0 FA Cup win at Eastbourne Borough, both taking their tally for the season to three – Yates also scored both goals in the win over Burton Albion at the end of last month

Madine said of his strike partner: “He buzzes around all game. He doesn’t give anyone a moment’s rest and he’s as honest as the day is long.

“I’m happy for him as well. He’s a great lad around the place and all of the boys love him, so I’m delighted he’s been able to get a few goals recently. If I can help him in any way, then I’ll try my best to do that.”

Madine often found himself on the substitutes’ bench in the early stages of the campaign. But the 30-year-old has been a regular starter in recent league outings, which has coincided with Blackpool’s upturn in form.

“It was frustrating at the start of the season not playing because I knew I’ve got a lot to offer,” Madine added.

“I’m not the type of player who will get people out of their seats by beating three or four men, but I bring other things to the game. I really feel I can help some of the younger lads around me.”

Despite a revival which has seen Blackpool win four games on the spin and five of their last six in all competitions, Madine insists there’s still a lot more to come.

“We’re not quite seeing the best of us just yet,” the striker said.

“We’re a young team that is learning on the job, so we’ll only get better.

“I just pray the fans stay with us because we’re a young team and these players are only going to improve.

“It takes time for everyone to gel, so the more games we play together the better we’ll get.”

After enjoying a rare weekend off, Blackpool now turn their attention to Saturday’s visit to League One leaders Peterborough United.

“That will be a proper test,” Madine said.

“I think Peterborough will be there or thereabouts for promotion, so it will be a big test of how far the young lads have come.”

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