Blackpool have completed eight new signings this summer as manager Ian Evatt prepares his squad for tonight's 11pm transfer deadline. The Seasiders sit top of League One with seven points from three games, having scored seven goals and conceded just two, according to the latest standings.
Ian Evatt said that the club has enjoyed a productive summer on paper. Eight new players have made the move to Bloomfield Road so far, with the window set to close this evening.
Bailey Peacock-Farrell remains the number one choice after signing a one-year extension at the start of the summer. His backup is new arrival Luke Southwood, who was signed as cover following Franco Ravizzoli's departure from the club. This gives Blackpool experienced options between the posts as they prepare for their next match, an away trip to face Barnsley on September 2nd.
The central defensive unit appears well stocked. Jordan Williams has performed strongly on the right of the back three. Olly Casey offers reliability either to the right or in the middle. Fraser Horsfall and Michael Ihiekwe bring experience but need to maintain full fitness given their injury records. Josh Earl will compete with Zac Ashworth on the left side, while Andy Lyons has proved himself as capable cover on the right. The current defensive solidity is reflected in the team's +5 goal difference.
Josh Bowler has been electric in the early stages of the season, providing a constant threat. New additions Ilmari Niskanen and Finley Munroe arrive with good CVs but have seen limited playing time so far. They join CJ Hamilton and Hayden Coulson in providing options out wide. This depth will be tested across a long season, with fans able to track upcoming matches on the club's fixtures page.
Jordan Brown is valued for his work without the ball, doing the defensive dirty work. New signing Karoy Anderson is described as the glue that brings everything together in the middle of the park. They join Albie Morgan, George Honeyman and Leighton Clarkson to give Evatt several tactical choices in the engine room.
The striking department has seen significant reinforcement. Dion Charles and Jerry Yates have joined the existing group of Niall Ennis, Tom Bloxham and Dale Taylor. Kylian Kouassi is expected to leave the club as he finds himself down the pecking order when everyone is fit. The forward line has already contributed to the team's strong start, netting seven times in three league outings. Full details on all player contributions are available on the stats page.
Blackpool's business appears largely complete with the window shutting tonight. The squad, now bolstered by eight new faces, will look to maintain its early season form when it travels to face ninth-placed Barnsley tomorrow.
