The Seasiders are just four points above the drop zone despite Ince's 18 goals this season, form which saw the 21-year-old winger named Johnstone's Paint Trophy Young Player of the Year at the Football League awards on Sunday night.

"I didn't expect this at all. I've enjoyed my season at Blackpool but this has capped it off nicely," he told Press Association Sport.

"It's been up and down, it's not easy when you get managerial changes.

"At the start of the season we were flying high at the top but have you seen our pitch? It's like Blackpool beach at the moment.

"So there have been disappointments this season but we have a great group of lads, we all work for each other and we are where we are.

"We have to make sure we keep Blackpool in the Championship this season and then next season get Blackpool where they should be, challenging at the top."

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Football - Survival the next aim for Ince