Neil Critchley has left his position as Liverpool U23s coach to become the new Blackpool boss.
The 41-year-old spent six years at Liverpool, and took charge of two first team matches this season in both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.
Critchley was on the touchline as Liverpool – who fielded a team comprised of youngsters – crashed out of the league cup against this year’s finalists Aston Villa.
He also managed Liverpool in the FA Cup fourth-round replay victory over Shrewsbury.
The Blackpool job will be his first as a head coach.
Liverpool academy director Alex Inglethorpe said: “It’s a bittersweet day in many respects.
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“Obviously losing a person and professional of Neil’s calibre is something that is a disappointment, but at the same time we have great excitement and joy that he has been given this wonderful opportunity.
“We see this as a reflection on the Academy as a whole, that it’s an environment where players and coaches have a pathway to progression and self-improvement.
“Blackpool want Neil because of the work he’s done at Liverpool and it shows to everyone within our system that if you work hard and work smart then rewards are there.
“Neil epitomises the best qualities of a modern coach: leadership skills, intelligence, compassion and a hunger for individual and collective improvement. Blackpool are very fortunate to have him and we wish him well.
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“For the U23s we are confident in the remaining coaching talent we have to make sure there is no drop-off in the interim period. This season has proved the importance of the role and, therefore, we will take advantage of having amazing people already in post to take stock and assess what to do next.
“Myself, Michael Edwards and Jurgen Klopp will work collaboratively on what works best for the future. Pathway is so critical to this club we want to make sure we make the best appointment we can.”
