Blackpool CEO David Downes has confirmed the club does not anticipate any further transfer activity before the summer window closes. In a message to supporters this week, Downes outlined a quiet deadline day while reflecting on a positive start to the season.
Downes stated the squad is largely set following the arrivals of forwards Jerry Yates and Dion Charles, defender Josh Earl, and several others over recent months. The only movement expected involves potential outgoings, following Kylian Kouassi's permanent departure to Colchester United. Blackpool's summer business has been focused on strengthening Ian Evatt's options ahead of a long campaign.
David Downes used his message to express significant gratitude to the club's supporters. He highlighted the atmosphere during the recent 4-0 victory over Peterborough United and linked it directly to the team's performance. Season ticket sales are approaching 7,000, a figure Downes described as a demonstration of continued commitment from the fanbase.
He also gave a special mention to fans who purchased the new 125th-anniversary home shirt, which sold over 800 units on its launch day alone. "Your fantastic support will always continue to make a huge difference to our team which doesn’t go unnoticed by Ian and the players," Downes wrote. The shirt design nods to kits from the early 1900s and incorporates historical club crests.
With the transfer window concluding, Ian Evatt has a settled group to work with. Key additions like Jerry Yates add proven goal threat, while the defensive unit has been bolstered. According to our squad data, the team has a balanced age profile with a mix of experienced professionals and younger talents.
| Player | Position | Age |
|---|---|---|
| Luke Southwood | Goalkeeper | 28 |
| Jordan Williams | Defender | 28 |
| Karoy Anderson | Midfielder | 20 |
| Ilmari Niskanen | Midfielder | 26 |
| Finley Munroe | Defender | 19 |
The table above shows a sample of the summer arrivals. This recruitment aligns with the club's need to build a competitive squad while adhering to financial regulations like the Salary Cost Management Protocol (SCMP), which Downes acknowledged as a challenge.
Engagement with the local area remains a priority. Downes confirmed the upcoming launch of the Tangerine Teammates initiative for the new season. This program, run with the Blackpool FC Community Trust, will see each first-team player linked to a local grassroots club.
Recent weeks have also included open training sessions and visits for young and international fans, including some from Colorado. The CEO stressed the importance of taking the club into the heart of the Fylde Coast community. He also thanked all club staff and volunteers for their daily work behind the scenes.
The immediate focus shifts fully to on-pitch matters. That match will be another test in a league campaign where Blackpool currently sit in a promising position. The club's 125th year of playing at Bloomfield Road has begun with momentum, backed by strong supporter engagement and a refreshed squad.
