Blackpool need a new manager ahead of the 2022/23 season following the announcement that Neil Critchley has left the club to join Aston Villa, becoming Steven Gerrard’s assistant.
The assistant head coach role at Villa Park opened up after Michael Beale, Gerrard’s number-two, – yesterday (Wednesday 1st June) became the Queens Park Rangers.
Critchley, who previously worked alongside Villa boss Steven Gerrard in the Liverpool academy (pictured below), was appointed Blackpool boss in March 2020. He guided the Seasiders to promotion to the Championship via the play-offs in 2020-21 and they finished 16th in the second tier this season.
Blackpool owner Simon Sadler said, ‘Neil has been a consummate professional ever since arriving at Blackpool and really bought into what this club and town are all about. He has built up strong relationships with the staff, players and supporters and made some special memories for us all. Naturally, we are disappointed to lose him, but thank him for all that he has achieved during his time at Bloomfield Road and wish him well.’
