Mick McCarthy explains why ex-Everton and Ipswich Town man is back in Blackpool's 25-man squad

The left-back was originally left out of Blackpool’s list after the January transfer window had closed. But, without prior warning, he popped up on the bench for the recent 1-0 win against Stoke.

Not only that, the 29-year-old even came off the bench to make his first appearance since Boxing Day in a midfield role.

When asked why Garbutt was drafted back in having been left out only a few weeks ago, McCarthy told The Gazette: “Garbs can play in midfield or anywhere down that left-hand side. He’s certainly a really talented footballer.

“Charlie (Patino) had been suspended, Lewis (Fiorini) is just coming back, we’ve got Tom (Trybull) out for however long he’s out for, so we were a little bit light.

“I thought he did well as well, so I’m pleased. He’s been training well.”

The Seasiders still have two spaces remaining in their 25-man squad list after McCarthy opted to leave gaps free for the players currently out injured to fill upon their return.

Marvin Ekpiteta is expected to take up one, with the defender on schedule to return from a hamstring injury within the next week or two.

Who takes the other space is up for debate though, with Charlie Goode, Bridcutt, Trybull, Keshi Anderson and Jake Beesley not expected to be back any time soon.

Like Garbutt, Lewis Fiorini was also added back into the squad following his return against Stoke.