Blackpool seek signings but boss Neil Critchley says January window is so tough

Blackpool were initially expecting a fairly quiet January window, with only one or two incomings initially mooted.

The squad has nevertheless been depleted in the last week or so, making reinforcements more urgent than anticipated.

However, that’s proving more difficult than hoped, with rival clubs hesitant to move players on when they might soon be required due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic.

Head coach Critchley said: “We’re hopeful of bringing some bodies in, but January is proving notoriously difficult as clubs don’t want to let players out.

“Sometimes it can be a game of chess and a case of one in, one out. We’re working overtime. We were speaking on Sunday, we’ll continue to speak on Monday. We’re looking and we’re hopeful.

“Covid has certainly had an impact because clubs are looking to protect themselves. Financially as well, we’re in an uncertain period.”

Ben Woodburn’s return to Liverpool following the end of his loan spell leaves the Seasiders especially short in the attacking third.

Dan Kemp was another to depart last week, the winger joining League Two side Leyton Orient on a permanent deal after being recalled by his parent club West Ham United.

Keshi Anderson and CJ Hamilton are injured, while Bez Lubala came off on Saturday with a slight knock.

Demetri Mitchell, a left-back who can play further up the pitch, was left out against Hull City at the weekend as a precaution.

On Blackpool’s decision not to extend Woodburn’s loan, Critchley said: “We make the best decision together on what is the best thing for Ben and what is the best thing for us as a club. Everyone has to agree to that situation.

“Obviously with Ben and Kempy going, that leaves some room at the top end of the pitch for us.”

The 21-year-old started just three league games for the Seasiders and made 11 appearances in all competitions.

The attacking midfielder has struggled for game time in recent weeks, although he did come off the bench during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Hull and was fouled by Reece Burke that led to the defender being shown a straight red card.

It was a frustrating spell for the Welshman, who tested positive for coronavirus at the end of October.

Woodburn was also dogged by serious knee injuries during his season-long loan spell with Oxford United last year.

“When Ben first came in he played well initially and then he got coronavirus,” Critchley explained.

“While he was out, we won all of our games and he found it difficult to get back in for various reasons.

“He needs to go and play consistently game after game and it’s been decided through both sides that’s the best thing to happen now.”

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