Blackpool has made two acquisitions this summer.
Ashley Fletcher, who previously played for Manchester United, West Ham, and Middlesbrough, became the Seasiders’ second signing last week as preparations for the 2024/25 season continued.
The 28-year-old joins Bloomfield Road as a free agent after his contract with Watford expired, having spent the majority of his three years with the Hornets on loan. In a recent interview with BBC Radio Lancashire, Blackpool head coach Neil Critchley highlighted why he was delighted about Fletcher’s coming and how he is convinced he will produce in Tangerine despite having a difficult time on the pitch in recent seasons.
“He was at Bolton as a little lad when I was coaching at Crewe, and then we moved to Manchester United, when I came up against him.
“He has always been a talented player, as evidenced by some of the organizations he has represented. When you speak with him, you realize what a down-to-earth, humble man he is.”He’s only 28, so I believe he still has some strong years ahead of him, and I’m excited to see what impact he can have on the team and in the locker room.”
Critchley was also delighted to welcome back Jordan Rhodes on a free transfer after the 34-year-old’s successful loan spell with Huddersfield.
The striker scored 15 goals in the first half of last season before missing two games from the end of January onwards.
In addition to adding Rhodes to his squad, the Blackpool manager underlined the importance of agreeing to a new two-year contract with James Husband. “I’m delighted – Rhodesy is similar to Keysy (Richard Keogh) in the way he made such a big impression because of who he is as a person, the more you’re in this game, the more you want to surround yourself with the right kind of people,” he commented. “He loved his time here last year and was desperate to come back. We wanted to keep him, so I’m delighted we’ve been able to secure his signature. “I’d also like to add, keeping James Husband was important to us as well. Retaining your best players is good recruitment as well, and Hubby has been a fantastic ally for me on and off the pitch. I’m delighted he’s decided to stay.” With the first team back in training on Thursday, Critchley admits the Seasiders are still busy behind the scenes in trying to boost their squad. 
“I still think there’s areas of the pitch we need to strengthen,” the player said.
“If you went through the squad, you would be able to identify some areas where we need assistance. That is the work we continue to undertake, and it has been happening all summer.
“We’ve been really busy in recent days, and maybe that will change in the near future.
“The roster is beginning to take shape; if we can, we’ll be working toward what I hope will be a quality squad to compete against some clubs with vast riches. It’ll be a very tough league next year, which makes for an interesting challenge.”
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