Hearts defender addresses links to Blackpool after failed move | OneFootball

Hearts defender Toby Sibbick has admitted he was flattered by Blackpool’s interest but insists he always wanted to remain with the SPL side.

Blackpool reportedly submitted an offer in January for the former Barnsley defender, in the region of £600,000 which was turned down by Hearts.

The interest from the Tangerines even led to Hearts issuing a statement, condemning Mick McCarthy for his comments on the speculation.

McCarthy claimed Hearts perhaps weren’t being entirely honest about the situation, suggesting they were speaking openly to drum up further interest in their player.

However, Sibbick has insisted he’s never thought about moving away from Hearts, insisting he was never interested in a move to Blackpool.

He told Edinburgh Live: “It’s nice to have interest from elsewhere but my mind was focused here. I just wanted to stay and keep playing.

“I’m at a good club, fighting for European places and we’re still in the Scottish Cup. That’s something we want to win this season so it wasn’t really in my mind.

“I had conversations with the gaffer, but in my mind I just want to be here, keep playing games and keep developing.”

Blackpool recruited well in January, strengthening their side in several key areas. They added creativity through Josh Bowler and Morgan Rogers, with Tom Trybull adding to depth in central midfield.

Defensively, they added Charlie Goode and Curtis Nelson with Sibbick seemingly being the last piece of the January puzzle which didn’t quite happen.

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The Verdict

Blackpool showed ambition in January to drastically improve their squad which was desperately needed.

Whether it was Michael Appleton or Mick McCarthy at the helm, the club needed players and they showed intent to get into the market and recruit.

They didn’t pull the Sibbick signing off, but it shows they were pushing for new recruits which will no doubt please supporters.

The only frustration that may lie with them was the inability to do so in the summer, which may have seen them in a stronger position in the table now, with valuable lessons being learnt and acted on this time around.