At first glance, Charlie Adam doesn’t appear to be the most fashionable or graceful player in the Premier League but when he gets a ball to his feet that perception changes.

Elegant in possession, it’s been a joy to see a player make the step up from the level he was used to with such ease as he pings 30-yard passes effortlessly, expresses exceptional vision and awareness and plays it nice and simple when needed.

He is the pivot in Ian Holloway’s team, and in some respects, the voice of the manager on the pitch.

 

Some teams with limited resources, especially those who have just been promoted, use their tag as a get out of jail free-card when it comes to refusing to play football, or at least attempt to play it in the right way.

Many teams will say “we’ve got to make the best use of what we got and play the way that suits us best” which usually translates to hoofing it up the pitch.

Blackpool had virtually no money to spend, didn’t even have their new stand constructed before the start of the campaign and brought in the bulk of their new players on the eve of the season.

Yet their philosophy, even with what appears to be an average squad on paper at least, is to play a passing game. They may not be able to pull it off with the same poise as other established teams, but at least the intent is there. They get caught out in possession more times than they would like, but at least it doesn’t put them off trying it again.

They have been one of the most attractive teams to watch in the Premier League this season. And considering the obstacles that were put in their way and the number of critics who lined up to dismiss their prospects in August, it makes their football all the more pleasing.

Although their shaky defence may threaten their position, their bold attitude has been vindicated so far and it’s no surprise to see so many neutrals willing them to stay up.

Inevitably, their exploits will lead to a swarming interest from bigger clubs. If Adam doesn’t leave during this transfer window, he’ll go at the end of the season, while Holloway will have no shortage of interest in acquiring his services should he keep the club in the division. Unfortunately, even for Blackpool, romanticism has its price. Let’s just savour the relationship while it lasts.