News update
ASTON VILLA
Neil Critchley has been appointed as Steven Gerrard’s assistant manager, leaving Championship side Blackpool looking for a new manager.
The 43-year-old, who guided the Seasiders to League One promotion in 2020/21, knows former Rangers manager Gerrard from his time working at Liverpool’s academy where he coached the under-18s and under-23s.
He will replace Michael Beale, the former Ibrox first-team coach, who leaves to take up the position as QPR’s new manager.
Critchley was a huge success at Bloomfield Road following his March 2020 appointment, guiding the club back to the Championship via the play-offs in his first season in charge before consolidating their position in the second tier.
Blackpool owner Simon Sadler says he is “disappointed” by Critchley’s exit.
He said on the club website: “Neil has been a consummate professional ever since arriving at Blackpool and really bought into what this club and town are all about. He has built up strong relationships with the staff, players and supporters and made some special memories for us all.
“Naturally, we are disappointed to lose him, but thank him for all that he has achieved during his time at Bloomfield Road and wish him well in the Premier League with Aston Villa.
“Our primary focus now turns to succession planning and making the best possible appointment to continue taking this great club of ours forward.”
CHELSEA
Antonio Rudiger cannot wait to get started at Real Madrid after his free transfer to the European champions was confirmed.
The 29-year-old turned down a lucrative new contract to stay at Chelsea, instead choosing to join the Spanish side on a four-year deal.
He leaves Stamford Bridge after five years, during which he won the FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.
Rudiger, who joined from Roma in 2017, said on Instagram: “I’m proud to announce that I’ll be joining @RealMadrid. I’m super excited for all the challenges ahead and can’t wait to play my first games for this huge club.”
Chelsea also confirmed the Germany international’s exit, adding in a statement: “We bid farewell to Antonio Rudiger as he departs Stamford Bridge with his Chelsea contract expiring, bringing to a close his five trophy-filled years with the club.
“The German defender has left the Blues to join Real Madrid, having played a huge role in our successes in recent seasons,” read the club statement.