Terry McPhillips to remain Blackpool boss for next three games

Gary Bowyer’s former assistant stressed he has not been offered the job on a permanent basis but said he continues to enjoy his first managerial role, having taken four points from three League One games and overseen a League Cup win over Barnsley since Bowyer’s resignation 18 days ago.

That form has seen some senior players publicly back the 49-year-old for the job, while McPhillips says the three-game agreement should enable the players to focus on tomorrow’s home clash with Accrington Stanley, Tuesday’s League Cup second round tie at Doncaster and the following weekend’s visit to Walsall.

He revealed yesterday afternoon: “We have just had a meeting with the club and some of the senior players. It was a really good meeting.

“I think players want to know and the fans want to know. It can’t go on too long and in the end we will have to decide. Hopefully we’ll get the next three games out of the way, then we’ll see.”

Asked if the players were happy with him taking charge, Phillips added: “That was part of the meeting. It was a good meeting. The players want to know what is happening. They want to know who it will be.

“If we get Accy, Doncaster and Walsall out of the way, hopefully I think the club should make an appointment soon after that.

“I suggested the three games. It was like a marker, so the lads can settle down for a week, play their football and not worry that something is going to happen on Monday. Hopefully that settles everyone down.”

And now McPhillips’ sole focus is on Accrington.

He added: “I’ve not been offered the job, so I have not had a decision to make. It is as simple as that.

“I will just take the team until I’m told differently. It has been great leading the team and being the ultimate guy who picks it and does the subs.

“I have enjoyed it and we will see what happens. All the focus is on Accrington and we go from there.”