Blackpool's matchwinner at Sunderland has hit new heights for the club this season

The 25-year-old bagged his seventh goal of the campaign on Tuesday night with a wonder strike in Pool’s 1-0 win against Sunderland.

It comes after the former Crystal Palace man bagged six goals in 30 games during his first season with the club.

“Sullay’s goal on Tuesday night was a goal of the season contender, it was a fantastic strike,” Critchley said.

“If you look at the amount of games he’s played, his goal contribution and assists, you could argue it’s been his best season – particularly for Blackpool.

“He’s an important player for us at the top end of the pitch because he’s that creative player that can decide games for you.”

Kaikai could be missing for today’s game against Northampton Town after hobbling off at the Stadium of Light with a hamstring injury.

Grant Ward is also a doubt after feeling his calf, which forced him off during stoppage time on Tuesday night.

It followed an exceptional display from the midfielder, who has excelled in the centre of the park this season.

“Both Wardy and Sullay were important on Tuesday, that’s for certain,” Critchley added.

“Wardy has started to catch a bit more attention in the last few weeks and rightly so. He’s been a fantastic player for us this season.

“He’s gone a little bit unnoticed until recently but people are now seeing the contribution he’s making to the team.

“Tuesday night’s performance was incredible. He covered every blade of grass on that pitch for us.

“He’s selfless, he works himself into the ground for the team and the amount of first balls, second balls and his use of the ball, he helps us get from one end of the pitch to the other.

“He was tireless in helping us win that game on Tuesday night.

“We knew this season would be different and you want players that are multi-functional, who can carry out numerous different types of jobs for you.

“Over the course of the season, you know your squad is going to get stretched with injuries because of the schedule of games.

“You know with Wardy, you can play him in different types of positions. The other night he played in a three-man midfield, he’s played in a two-man midfield, he’s played wide. Wherever he plays, he excels.”

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