Defender Josh Earl has completed his move to Blackpool from Barnsley, signing a three-year contract with the Seasiders. The 27-year-old, who was born in Southport, explained he personally pushed for the switch, which was finalised before the summer transfer window closed.
Blackpool head coach Ian Evatt has added the left-sided defender to a squad sitting 11th in League One after five games. The team has seven points from two wins, one draw, and two losses, with a goal difference of plus two after scoring nine and conceding seven. They are five points behind early leaders Sheffield Wednesday. Earl's arrival bolsters defensive options ahead of the next fixture, a home match against Bromley on September 12.
Josh Earl was clear about his reasons for wanting the transfer to Bloomfield Road. "It took a while to get the actual deal done in the end, but it was very exciting at the time, and something I really pushed for," he said. The former Preston North End and Fleetwood Town player described Blackpool as a massive club and praised its passionate fanbase. A key factor was proximity. "It’s close to home for me, so it’s brilliant from an outside of football aspect for my family," Earl said. The undisclosed fee brings his two-year spell at Barnsley to an end.
The defender has committed his future to the Seasiders with a three-year deal, which also includes a club option for a further 12 months. This provides long-term stability for both player and club as they aim to climb the standings. Earl acknowledged it will take a couple of weeks to fully settle into his new surroundings at Bloomfield Road. He noted there are big characters already within the squad and said his immediate focus is on trying to fit in and contribute to the group's efforts.
Working under Ian Evatt was a significant draw for the new signing. Earl stated that the opportunity to learn from the gaffer will be fantastic and he expects to develop a lot under his guidance. He joins a coaching staff that includes familiar faces like Stephen Crainey and Steve Thompson. Earl's experience in League One and his versatility across the back line offer Evatt more tactical flexibility. Fans can view the updated squad list following this addition. His integration comes at a busy period, with the full fixtures schedule showing a packed calendar.
Blackpool's next test is at home against 21st-placed Bromley this Saturday. Josh Earl's three-year contract, with its additional one-year option, is now officially complete.
