Neil Critchley explains Gary Madine's surprise absence during Blackpool's win against Northampton Town

Neil Critchley has revealed a slight groin problem was behind Gary Madine’s surprise absence during Blackpool’s win against Northampton Town last night.

According to the Blackpool boss, the 30-year-old has been carrying the niggle for the past few weeks but has opted to play on.

But with the Seasiders playing eight games in February, Critchley decided it was best to give Madine some rest and hope the problem clears up ahead of their hectic schedule.

“He’s just got a slight groin problem, he’s had it for a number of games now,” Critchley said.

“He’s desperate to play and he’s been leading the line unbelievably well for us, he’s been a big player for us this season and he’s ran through brick walls recently.

“But we just want it to settle down a little bit so it doesn’t get any worse, so we’re hopeful it won’t keep him out for too long.”

Also missing through injury last night was Bez Lubala, as the depleted Seasiders were still without as many as eight players for their 2-0 win against the Cobbers.

Also missing were Daniel Gretarsson, Luke Garbutt, Ethan Robson, Grant Ward, Keshi Anderson and CJ Hamilton.

However, Critchley is hopeful those injury problems might clear up over the coming days ahead of Saturday’s trip to Suffolk to face Ipswich Town.

“The Covid issue is fine now, but we’ve got a few knocks and bruises,” Pool’s head coach said.

“I would hope quite a few of those players are fit and available for selection on Saturday.

“Other than the three long-term players, Daniel Gretarsson, Keshi Anderson and CJ Hamilton, the other ones will be back imminently.”

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