Former Blackpool boss Neil Critchley has revealed he is doing everything in his power to prepare himself for the next opportunity that comes his way, speaking on UCLAN's Que Sera Sera Podcast.

The 44-year-old has been out of work since last month, being dismissed by Aston Villa when Steven Gerrard was sacked following the Midlands outfit's underwhelming start to the 2022/23 campaign.

This sacking came following his decision to leave Blackpool in the summer to link up with Villa - a decision that came as a surprise to some considering how popular he was at Bloomfield Road and the fact he had built up a good managerial reputation.

Although some saw his switch to Villa to become assistant was seen as a step down, he is still seemingly well-thought-of in the EFL with the ex-Liverpool coach being linked with the Luton Town and Wigan Athletic jobs in recent times.

The former may have moved to secure Rob Edwards - but the latter vacancy is still unfilled and with Kolo Toure failing to complete his switch to the DW Stadium yet - the Latics' board could potentially be keeping one eye on Critchley.

And the latter has revealed his current plans, admitting that he's using his free time productively as he potentially looks to get back into the game.

He said (via Lancs Live): "I've got a little bit of free time on my hands so I'm trying to do everything I can to upskill myself and prepare myself for the next opportunity.

"Preparing, watching many games, reflecting on my experiences of what I've had in the last few years and then being open minded on what might present itself in the future."

The Verdict:

It would be understandable if Critchley wanted to take some time out of the game - because he endured a tough time at Villa with the team performing well below expectations.

It was also hard for him to escape comparisons to Michael Beale because the current Queens Park Rangers boss was hailed as a key cog in Gerrard's machine and Critchley was seemingly unable to have a similar impact.

Whilst he's still reportedly of interest to EFL clubs though, he should probably look to take on the Wigan job on if the opportunity comes his way because it's unclear when he will get another job.

Although it could be argued that Gerrard may take him elsewhere, Critchley didn't enjoy a successful time with the Liverpool legend in the Midlands and this is why the former England international may decide against keeping him as a key part of his backroom staff.

And following such a successful time at Bloomfield Road, you would certainly back Critchley to be a head coach again. He certainly has the potential to be a success elsewhere, so it will be interesting to see where he goes next.