After achieving promotion to the Championship via the play-offs last year, Blackpool have adapted well to life in this particular division under the guidance of head Neil Critchley.

With two games left to play this season, the Seasiders are currently 15th in the league standings.

Set to face Derby County this weekend at Bloomfield Road, Blackpool will be keen to extend their unbeaten run in the second-tier to four games by securing a positive result in this clash.

Whereas it would be somewhat of a shock if the Seasiders do not strengthen their squad this summer, some of the existing members of their team will be looking to push on in the 2022/23 campaign.

Here, we have decided to take a look at two up-and-coming Blackpool players Critchley could lean on more next season...

Sonny Carey

Sonny Carey joined Blackpool in 2021 following a stint at King's Lynn Town.

In his debut season at the club, the midfielder's game-time has been limited due to issues with his fitness.

Before suffering a metatarsal injury earlier this year, Carey made 12 appearances for Blackpool in all competitions and scored his first goal in his side's 3-1 victory over Peterborough United.

Providing that he is able to make a full recovery ahead of pre-season, the 21-year-old could potentially bolster his chances of featuring regularly in the second-tier by showcasing his talent to Critchley in training.

Oliver Casey

Oliver Casey also joined Blackpool last year after being handed his first taste of senior football at Leeds United.

Due to the presence of Richard Keogh, Jordan Thorniley and Marvin Ekpiteta, Casey has struggled to make inroads on the club's starting eleven this season.

 

 

The defender made his fourth league appearance of the current campaign against Barnsley earlier this week and went on to produce a positive display at Oakwell.

As well as scoring in this particular clash, Casey helped his side keep a clean-sheet by winning five aerial duels and making two tackles (as per WhoScored).

By building upon this performance in Blackpool's remaining league fixtures, the 21-year-old could become an integral part of Critchley's plans for the 2022/23 campaign.