Blackpool look set to extend the stay of on-loan defender Ben Heneghan until the end of the season. 

The 26-year-old is on-loan from Sheffield United and was originally set to return to the Blades following the Tangerines' FA Cup replay with Reading on Tuesday evening.

Heneghan has made 18 league appearances for Simon Grayson's men so this term, scoring two goals and helping the Tangerines to five league sheets so far this term.

With the defender set to extend his stay at Bloomfield Road - as per the Blackpool Gazette - we take a look at three knock on effects this transfer boost will have at Blackpool...

Provide Simon Grayson with consistency 

Heneghan has been one of Grayson's first choice centre backs for the majority of this term and with the defender set to extend his stay at the club, Simon Grayson will have not have to worry about changing his defence.

This could provide consistency and stability for the manager at the back and with Heneghan already adapted into the Blackpool side and Grayson's methods.

With Blackpool only four points of the League One play-offs, a consistency in the playing staff could help them push up the table.

Potential to secure the player in the summer

There were fears Heneghan would leave in the January window to pursue a permanent move to Championship side Luton Town, so this boost will no doubt allay those fears.

Furthermore, there is a possibility of Blackpool and Luton Town swapping divisions come the end of the season and should that be the case, the Tangerines may find themselves in the driving seat to secure Heneghan's permanent signature.

The 26-year-old's Blades contract expires this summer and regardless of what division Blackpool are in, they will no doubt have the upper hand when it comes to negotiating a permanent contract for the defender.

It's one less position to worry about

Lots of fans normally hope in the January window that their club strengthens in the positions they most need and they don't lose any key players.

While this recent boost will put fears to rest of Heneghan's future with the club, it will also mean Blackpool don't have to worry about recruiting another defender, as they most probably would have if Heneghan had left.

The Tangerines will be able to turn their focus elsewhere as they continue to look for players who can aid their play off push.

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