Neil Critchley assesses the chances of Luke Garbutt, James Husband, Matty Virtue and Sullay Kaikai being fit for Blackpool's trip to Gillingham

Head coach Neil Critchley, however, is hopeful of being able to welcome James Husband and Sullay Kaikai back into the fold.

Matty Virtue, who was missing from Blackpool’s squad for last weekend’s 2-0 win against Swindon Town, will continue to be assessed ahead of Saturday’s long trip down to Kent.

“James Husband and Sullay Kaikai have returned to training. Matty Virtue we’re still hopeful of but we’re not certain,” Critchley said.

“From last weekend, Sullay and Hubby should be available. Matty we’re still waiting on. He’s had a bit of a frustrating last couple of weeks, he’s just not been able to find a bit of rhythm that he had in the early part of pre-season.

“He’s not used to being injured so he finds it frustrating, but injuries are part and parcel of the game.

“He’s a very conscientious worker so whatever is put in front of him, he’ll work on and he’ll be desperate to get back and be involved as soon as possible.

“Luke hasn’t had a pre-season with a team but I have to say in the last couple of days he’s been with us, we’ve done some of our physical tests and assessments and he’s in good condition.

“I think Saturday will come too soon for him, we have to be mindful that he’s not played a game of football for a lengthy period of time now.

“We will steadily increase the workload for him and look to get him involved as soon as possible, but we have to be mindful that he hasn’t played for a lengthy period of time and he’s not had a pre-season.

“He won’t feature on Saturday, he’s not ready for that at the moment.”