Neil Critchley speaks up for unsung Blackpool hero Ollie Turton

Blackpool’s longest-serving player, who has been at the seaside since 2017, has played an integral role this season.

The full-back, 28, proved his versatility during Saturday’s 3-0 win at Northampton Town, starting the game at wing-back before moving into central midfield following the injury to Ethan Robson.

Head coach Critchley said: “He went in midfield and made a real contribution to the team in a positive way in the middle of the pitch.

“I’ve known Ollie since he was very young at Crewe. He’s been at Blackpool a good few years now and he’s been a good servant for us.

“You know you can play him anywhere on the pitch and he gives you everything he’s got every single game.

“He’s a top player who goes under the radar a little bit but I can assure you he’s very much appreciated by myself, the staff and the players.”

Turton wasn’t the only player to receive praise from Critchley on Saturday, when top scorer Jerry Yates also drew his boss’ attention.

The striker ended a six-game run without a goal by bagging a brace to take his tally for the season to 22, with 20 of those coming in League One .

It’s not just Yates’ goals that have proved important, though, it’s also his willingness to press and work tirelessly for the team.

“He’s got a fantastic mentality,” Critchley added.

“You think about the amount of games he’s played – back-to-back games, 90 minutes.

“He gives absolutely everything for the team.

“He’s selfless in how he works and those two goals will give him a big lift.

“They were proper centre-forward’s goals – the six-yard ones, the scruffy ones, the tap-ins.

“But he’s got to be in there to get those goals and he’s capable of getting all types of goals.

“It was really important for Jerry to get back among the goals because goalscorers get confidence from scoring goals.

“I like those tap-ins from inside the six-yard box. They’re scruffy but you have to be in there to get them.

“His work for the team is unbelievable. He’s selfless and game after game after game he gives everything to the team, so this will give him a big lift.

“I’m delighted for him because his contribution for the team is outstanding.”

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