Neil Critchley: Why Chris Maxwell is my captain fantastic for Blackpool

Neil Critchley believes captain Chris Maxwell is the perfect person to represent him on the pitch for Blackpool.
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The 30-year-old has been an ever present for Blackpool in League One this season, having been handed the captain’s armband.

Critchley has nothing but praise for the shot-stopper, who has been a reliable performer this term.

Chris Maxwell reflects the Blackpool manager and his philosophy on the fieldChris Maxwell reflects the Blackpool manager and his philosophy on the field
Chris Maxwell reflects the Blackpool manager and his philosophy on the field
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“He’s great to have as both a goalkeeper and a captain. He carries out both of those jobs unbelievably well,” the head coach said.

“He’s a top professional, who sets the standards every day of how we work. He demands the best from himself first and because he does that he can demand the best from the players.

“He’s got the respect of all the players around him because of the way he conducts himself every day.

“He’s a great voice in the dressing room, at the training ground and on the pitch. The captain should reflect the coach on the pitch and what he stands for, and he does that because he’s a great representation of me and the club.”

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Maxwell has returned the praise for Critchley, saying in pre-season that Blackpool fans should expect an exciting campaign. The keeper kept the faith when Blackpool got off to a slow start, losing five of their first seven games.

Maxwell did state the “penny has to drop” for Blackpool’s players following the 1-0 defeat to AFC Wimbledon in October, and they went on to win eight of their next 11 games.

Maxwell has played a leading role in the club’s revival, much to Critchley’s delight. “He’s an experienced player and he’s been in a lot of dressing rooms,” the Pool boss added.

“You can’t kid Maxi or pull the wool over his eyes. He knows when everything is going right or going wrong. He’s experienced when the environment or the culture isn’t quite right.

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“He’s been a big believer and supporter of what we’ve been doing and he’s been vocal in saying that. But he’s only saying what he feels because he’s an honest person, and I admire his professionalism and his honesty. That’s why he is captain.”

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