Liverpool and Man United Face Uphill Task to Sign England Under-21 Ace

Tom Ince has committed his future to Blackpool but has warned that he would one day like to test himself by playing at the very highest level.

The 21-year-old, who was voted the Football League Young Player of the Year, was heavily linked with Liverpool and Manchester United during the January transfer window but no deal could be struck and he remained at Bloomfield Road.

Liverpool were continually linked with Ince throughout the transfer window and while the winger admits a deal was never close, he admits he was flattered to be linked with a top Premier League clubs.

"I don't think any of the moves were close," Ince told Talksport. "It's great having that speculation and it's very flattering. To have teams of that magnitude saying you're a decent player, it gives me a smile and flatters me a lot.

"For me though it's about putting my faith in Blackpool because without that club, my team-mates and the fans I wouldn't be Football League Young Player of the Year and the player I am now.

"My dream is to play at the top level and to achieve my ambitions, but it's all about timing and patience, so when you get to the top you are ready to go and not jumping too soon."

Ince was previously a member of the Liverpool academy but was allowed to leave the club in the summer of 2011 and has been a huge success at Blackpool. He has scored 25 league goals in just 65 games and has become a regular member of the England Under-21 squad.

However, it may be difficult for Blackpool to keep hold of the winger for much longer as he clearly has ambitions to play in the Premier League, something that the Tangerines will certainly not be able to offer next season.

Blackpool are languishing in 17<sup>th place and will hope that Ince decides to remain with them for at least another season even if offers arrive from Manchester United or Liverpool.