Blackpool are searching for a new manager following the unexpected departure of Neil Critchley.

Critchley has taken up the position as Steven Gerrard’s assistant manager at Aston Villa and leaves Blackpool after more than two years in charge.

His appointment comes following Michael Beale’s departure from Villa Park, with Championship side QPR naming Gerrard’s former No.2 as their new boss this week.

Critchley had been under contract until 2026 having signed a new long-term deal at the end of last year.

Appointed in March 2020 having previously worked within Liverpool’s Academy, Critchley won promotion from League One via the play-offs in his first full season in charge.

Blackpool then finished 16th in Championship with 60 points, with Critchley leaving after 45 wins from his 109 games.

While Blackpool owner Simon Sadler said the club were ‘disappointed’ to lose Critchley but steps would now be taken to source his replacement.

He 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 in the Premier League with Aston Villa.

“Our primary focus now turns to succession planning and making the best possible appointment to continue taking this great club of ours forward.”

That means that three Lancashire sides are now looking for new managers, with Rovers, Burnley and now Blackpool on the hunt for a new boss.

Burnley have been without a manager since the departure of Sean Dyche in April, while Rovers confirmed the departure of Tony Mowbray three weeks ago.

Bolton boss, and former Seasiders defender, Ian Evatt is the early favourite with bookmakers for the Bloomfield Road job.

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