Andy Lyons set for lengthy spell out after ACL injury

Andy Lyons faces a spell on the sidelines as Blackpool confirmed that the former Republic of Ireland Under-21 defender has suffered a serious knee injury.

The 23-year-old, who joined the English League One club from SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division champions Shamrock Rovers in January 2023 on a three-and-a-half-year deal was stretchered off in the Tangerines' 1-0 defeat to Leyton Orient last Tuesday.

Blackpool manager Neil Critchley confirmed that the Kildare-born player has injured his anterior cruciate ligament.

"We've had some bad news regarding Andy," he said.

"Unfortunately he's suffered an ACL injury so it's a long-term injury that will keep him out for a lengthy period of time."

Lyons, who has won six Ireland Under-21 caps, had made 25 appearances in all competitions this season.

Having joined Blackpool in time to feature in the latter half of the 2022-23 campaign, he had enjoyed a strong start to his time at the club, scoring four goals from defence, although his form was unable to prevent relegation from the Championship.

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