FORMER Carlisle United favourite Richard Keogh has taken charge of Blackpool FC on an interim basis after the club announced the sacking of Neil Critchley. 

The Tangerines announced that they had parted ways with their manager after a winless start to their 2024/25 campaign which included a 2-1 defeat to Crawley Town on the opening day and most recently, a 3-0 defeat by Stockport County. 

Blackpool are currently second bottom of the third tier. 

In a statement on the club's website, Blackpool confirmed Critchley's dismissal and announced that Keogh, who made 95 appearances for Carlisle between 2007 and 2010, would take charge of the club on an interim basis. 

Blackpool owner Simon Sadler said: "Neil's dedication, commitment, and tireless work ethic have been a real credit to the Club.

"Despite his best efforts over the past 12 months, there have been a number of disappointing results and performances which means that a change is needed to give the Club every possible chance of competing at the top end of the division this season.

“I will always be thankful for Neil’s wonderful efforts in guiding the Club to promotion to the Championship in 2021, and then comfortably keeping us in the division the following season. 

“I and all at the Club wish Neil and Mike the very best for the future.

"The club can confirm Richard Keogh will take charge of the side on an interim basis, starting with this weekend's trip to Cambridge United."

The appointment comes less than months after the departing Blackpool boss had handed the former Carlisle United defender an opportunity to be part of his backroom staff following his retirement from professional football over the summer.