Neil Critchley provides encouraging update on Blackpool's three long-term injury absentees

CJ Hamilton, who hasn’t played since mid-December due to a hamstring injury, has stepped up his rehabilitation programme and could rejoin the squad for training in the not-too-distant future.

Daniel Gretarsson, meanwhile, is also on the mend having been out since the start of January, also with a hamstring complaint.

Keshi Anderson remains a long-term absentee having undergone surgery last month, something that is likely to keep him out for the remainder of the campaign.

Nevertheless, the midfielder has returned to Blackpool’s Squires Gate training ground this morning.

“CJ has been back out running on the grass now for a week or two, so he can step up his rehab programme this week,” Critchley said.

“Fingers crossed he’ll be able to re-integrate back into training soon.

“Daniel Gretarsson will be back out on the grass hopefully this week, so again he’ll need a couple of weeks to build up his running, ball work etc.

“Keshi is back in the building today, which is nice. We certainly heard him about the place as we normally do, but it’s nice to see his face.

“He’s obviously not going to be with us for a while, but it’s nice to have him back at the training ground for certain.”

Gary Madine is unlikely to return from a groin complaint in time for tomorrow’s game against Rochdale, but there’s better news elsewhere.

“We’re just waiting on Gary now and hopefully he’ll be available sooner rather than later,” Critchley added.

“Rochdale will probably come too soon, so I don’t think he’ll be involved.

“But both Ethan (Robson) and Matty (Virtue) are back in, they’re training and they’re both available.”

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