Neil Critchley explains absence of strikers Joe Nuttall and Gary Madine for Blackpool's friendly defeat to Blackburn Rovers

Nuttall missed out for the third game running having injured his knee in the 2-1 win against Port Vale earlier this month.

The 23-year-old underwent a scan last week to assess the damage and fortunately the news was positive.

Madine, meanwhile, was left out as a precaution against Blackburn after pickling up a slight knock in Saturday’s 3-3 draw against Everton.

“He just felt his back on Saturday during the game, so we just left him out as a precaution as we’ve done a couple of times now during pre-season,” Critchley explained.

“We don’t want to risk anyone but touch wood we’ve not had any other injuries other than Joe that have kept players out for a week or 10 days, which has been a real bonus.

“Pre-season is an important time for any player so they can get a good base for the rest of the season.

“Joe was back on the grass running on Tuesday so that’s a positive sign, so hopefully he can build on that.

“Although it was his first day running in straight lines, hopefully he won’t be too far away.”