Transfer news: Blackpool boss Jose Riga admits he needs more players

Blackpool manager Jose Riga is aware that he needs 'more players' if Blackpool are to steer a course to safety.

Riga saw his side suffer an eighth defeat of the season away at Huddersfield Town on Saturday to remain rooted to the foot of the Sky Bet Championship table.

Just six points have been collected from 12 games so far, with a standing outside of the drop zone already five points out of reach.

I know more than anyone out there what my squad is. We saw the reality that we still need more players.

Riga was aware when inheriting the managerial reins that a tough season was ahead, with only eight senior players on his books when he took charge.

He has been able to boost those numbers, but acknowledges that further additions are required if the corner is to be turned and a survival bid sparked.

Riga told the Blackpool Gazette: “During the week I said we had to be careful about making conclusions about the team after one win. Well, now we face the reality.

“Everything wasn’t okay because we got one win.

“I know more than anyone out there what my squad is. We saw the reality that we still need more players.

“That wasn’t the only reason for this defeat (against Huddersfield), but it’s the main reason.”

One of those Blackpool have brought in, Joel Dielna, lasted just 17 minutes at the John Smith’s Stadium, with Riga admitting that the Frenchman needs more time in which to adjust to new surroundings.

He said: “I’m the manager and I take the blame. Joel did well against Cardiff but this was a different situation.

“He hasn’t played a lot and has no experience in the Championship, and it showed.

“I saw enough against Cardiff to make me think he would be good enough to master this game but that wasn’t the case.

“He had a bad day and was up against a player at the top of his game.

“I wanted to change it at 2-0, but we then conceded a quick third goal and I had to react.

“If I had done nothing I wouldn’t have been helping the team. It can happen that people have bad days.”