Neil Critchley: Blackpool may not have finished shopping in this window

The head coach predicted this month would be quiet compared to recent windows, suggesting there would be only one or two coming in and heading out.

That’s been the case so far, with the Seasiders bringing in Ellis Simms on loan from Everton and signing Kevin Stewart as a free agent. Dan Ballard has extended his loan from Arsenal until the end of the season.

In terms of outgoings, Nathan Shaw has extended his loan to AFC Fylde, while Jamie Devitt’s contract was cancelled by mutual consent, freeing him to join League Two side Barrow.

But with the window due to close on Monday night, Critchley says Blackpool’s transfer business isn’t necessarily done.

“We’re working,” he said. “There are still a few days to go and we’re always looking to improve the squad.

“January is difficult because teams are not going to let their best players walk out of the door halfway through the season.

“There’s an element of clubs wanting to protect themselves as well because of the situation we all find ourselves in.

“If we can identify those players we think will come and improve our squad, whether that be short-term or medium-term, then we will do that and that’s what we’re continuing to do between now and the end of the window”.

Former Liverpool and Hull City player Stewart became Blackpool’s second signing of the window on Saturday.

The energetic midfielder, 27, has signed an 18-month contract. He made 78 appearances over the past three Championship seasons with the Tigers.

Critchley, who worked with Stewart in the Liverpool academy, said: “Not only will he contribute on the pitch, if you want to try and develop the right culture and the right environment on a daily basis at the training ground, then Kevin will add to that massively.

“Kevin is a bit of everything. He’s an all-round midfield player. He can break play up, so he’s good without the ball, and he’s athletic and covers ground quickly. He can also play as well.

“He can help you build up, he can help you play through teams and he’s got experience.He’s spent the last three years playing in the Championship after all. He’s at a good age as well.

“I’ve been speaking to him for a while and I’m delighted to get it over the line.”

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