Blackpool manager Ian Evatt has highlighted the progress of 17-year-old Oli Hunter after the teenager gained exposure to the first-team environment. Speaking this week, Evatt said that Hunter's recent involvement can only bode well for his future at Bloomfield Road.
Hunter, who usually plays for the club's U18s and has helped out at Squires Gate, has been named as an unused substitute for the senior side over the last few weeks. This opportunity arose as Evatt has managed a significant injury list since taking over the top job last October. The situation has forced the manager to look towards the academy, with Oluchi Nwankwo and Theo Upton previously called upon. Nwankwo is currently injured, while Upton is out on loan with AFC Fylde.
Ian Evatt made his comments about the young forward last week. He pointed out that Hunter has stepped forward in a similar way to other academy products when senior players have been unavailable. "Oli has stepped forward, like Oluchi (Nwankwo) did in pre-season, like Theo (Upton) did," Evatt said. The manager explained that injuries create openings for young players to train with the first team, giving the coaching staff a valuable chance to assess them closely.
Evatt was clear that Hunter is still on a development path. He stated the player is not yet ready for regular senior football but is learning all the time. The Blackpool boss emphasized the importance of picking up good habits from established professionals. "He’s picking good habits up around here, which is important for young players, and it can only bode well for his future," Evatt added. This hands-on experience is viewed as a critical part of Hunter's progression within the club's system.
The focus on youth integration comes as Blackpool handle the early stages of the 2026-27 League One campaign. The Seasiders currently sit 11th in the standings, having taken seven points from their opening five matches. Their record shows two wins, one draw, and two losses, with a recent form guide reading LLWWD. The team has scored nine goals and conceded seven, giving them a positive goal difference of two. They are five points behind early leaders Sheffield Wednesday.
Evatt's need to manage his squad carefully is showed by this league context. Integrating promising youngsters like Hunter provides necessary depth and prepares them for future challenges. Fans can track the development of all squad members, including academy prospects, on the official squad page.
The immediate focus shifts to the next fixture. Blackpool are scheduled to play at home against Bromley on September 12. Bromley currently occupy 21st place in the table, making it an important opportunity for the Seasiders to build momentum. A full rundown of upcoming matches is available on the club's fixtures schedule.
For Oli Hunter, the immediate future involves continuing his education with the U18s while remaining ready should first-team opportunities arise. His bench appearances represent a significant step, validating his work at the development level. The club's strategy appears to be one of gradual exposure, ensuring young talents are not rushed but are given a taste of the demands at the highest level within the club.
The pathway used for Nwankwo and Upton serves as a blueprint. Both players earned their chances through necessity and now have senior experience, with Upton gaining further minutes at AFC Fylde. Hunter's current trajectory suggests he could follow a similar route, contributing to the squad as Blackpool aim to climb the League One table. Their next match at Bloomfield Road against Bromley is set for September 12.
