Neil Critchley: No plan yet to omit injured Keshi Anderson from Blackpool squad list

The prospect of leaving Keshi Anderson out of Blackpool’s 22-man squad to free up space for potential additions has not been discussed as yet.
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That’s according to head coach Neil Critchley, who admits the possibility may be considered at the back end of this transfer window.

With the Seasiders short on attacking options, it’s been mooted the injured Anderson could be taken off the squad list the club must submit to the EFL.

Keshi Anderson has made 20 Blackpool appearances this seasonKeshi Anderson has made 20 Blackpool appearances this season
Keshi Anderson has made 20 Blackpool appearances this season
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That way, Blackpool could make a new signing to reinforce their forward options.

Speaking to The Gazette before last night’s home match with Northampton Town was postponed, Critchley said of Anderson: “That’s not something we’ve discussed at the moment.

“We want to see how Keshi comes through the operation. I spoke to him after the operation on Saturday. He was a little bit down but positive as well, which Keshi always is.

“We now have to see how he is over the next few weeks, speak to the surgeon and see if it’s possible that he could return before the end of the season – but we probably won’t know that for a few weeks.

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“I believe we have to submit a new squad list (once the window has closed on February 1), so that gives us nearly two weeks and it’s something we’ll discuss.”

Anderson posted on his Twitter page on Saturday that he had undergone surgery and will miss the remainder of the season.

The midfielder has been missing since suffering a hamstring injury prior to last week’s FA Cup win against West Bromwich Albion.

In his post, the 25-year-old pledged to come back stronger from his operation.

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“Absolutely gutted to be missing the rest of the season,” Anderson wrote.

“Last two years have been a struggle mentally due to injuries, but I’m happy to have finally put the problem right with surgery.

“Doc said it was a success and the road to recovery starts now! Back stronger.”

Anderson’s injury blow leaves Blackpool short on options in the attacking third, a problem exacerbated by an injury to CJ Hamilton who is expected to be out for a lengthy period of time.

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Ben Woodburn has returned to Liverpool following the end of his loan spell while fellow loanee Dan Kemp also departed last week, joining League Two side Leyton Orient on a permanent deal after being recalled by his parent club West Ham United.

Bez Lubala and Grant Ward both suffered knocks during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Hull City, while Demetri Mitchell has tested positive for Covid-19 and is now self-isolating after being left out against the Tigers at the weekend.

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