Blackpool appoint Ian Evatt as new head coach to revive League One fortunes

Blackpool Football Club has appointed Ian Evatt as their new head coach following the sacking of Steve Bruce due to the club's poor start to the League One season. Evatt, a former Blackpool defender with 254 appearances and promotions from both League One and the Championship during his playing career, has signed a contract until June 2027. He has been coaching since 2018, with previous roles including caretaker at Chesterfield and permanent positions at Barrow and Bolton Wanderers, where he achieved promotion to League One and an EFL Trophy win. Evatt is expected to bring Stephen Crainey, a former Blackpool player and previous assistant at Bolton, as part of his backroom staff. The appointment comes as Blackpool sits at the bottom of the League One table with just two wins from 13 games, facing a crucial upcoming match against fellow strugglers Peterborough United. Evatt's past successes and familiarity with Blackpool are seen as key factors in attempting to improve the team's fortunes this season.