Latest on the future of Blackpool's Grant Ward as short-term contract expires
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The midfielder was brought in on a three-month deal back in October to help boost the numbers amid an injury crisis.
The 28-year-old was also utilised as an emergency right-back in the game against Middlesbrough when Callum Connolly was suspended and Jordan Gabriel was out injured.
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Hide AdBut since that 3-0 defeat at the start of November, Ward has yet to make another appearance and has even failed to make the match-day squads in recent weeks.
Prior to his sacking, Michael Appleton confirmed Ward would be let go once his short-term deal ran out on January 21.
Despite the arrival of new man Mick McCarthy, who worked with Ward during their time together at Ipswich Town between 2016 and 2018, the midfielder has now been let go.
The Seasiders have already strengthened in central midfield this month with the capture of experienced German Tom Trybull from Sandhausen SV.
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Hide AdBlackpool also have work to do to trim down their squad, with 27 ‘senior’ players currently on their books – three more than the 25 permitted under EFL squad restrictions.
Ward was initially released by Blackpool at the end of last season following an injury-hit campaign.
While the former Ipswich Town man continued to train with the Seasiders over the summer to help with his rehab, Appleton continued to rule out a return whenever probed about the midfielder’s situation.
However, the club made a U-turn in October when injuries forced their hand, with Ward arriving as a free agent outside the transfer window.