Blackpool Boss Reiterates Stance On Summer Target

Steve Bruce has once again underlined his interest in keeping Harry Tyrer at Blackpool beyond the current season following another commanding performance from the on-loan Everton goalkeeper.

The 23-year-old made his 30th League One appearance of the campaign in Saturday’s 2-0 victory at Northampton Town, keeping his 11th clean sheet in the process. It was a confident display that typified the progress he has made since arriving at Bloomfield Road last summer.

Bruce wants a deal, but outcome depends on Everton

Tyrer joined the Seasiders in August on a season-long loan, and Bruce has spoken more than once about the club’s desire to retain him permanently. Following the win at Sixfields, the head coach reiterated that stance, though he admitted the decision ultimately lies with the Toffees.

“We’d like him to stay, it’s about whether that’s possible because he’s not ours,” he said.

Since making the step up from Everton’s academy, Tyrer has gone from an untested talent to a dependable presence in Blackpool’s promotion-chasing side. Bruce highlighted his development, noting that the keeper is now slimmer, more confident, and thriving with regular football.

“He certainly feels and looks far more comfortable than he was six months ago,” Bruce added. “Fair play to him, he’s worked hard and lost a bit of timber – he wants to be a keeper. I’m really pleased for him.”

The coach also credited Tyrer for adapting to the physical demands of League One and contributing to a strong defensive unit that includes fellow young loanees Elkan Baggott and Odel Offiah.

The keeper has spoken publicly about his happiness at Bloomfield Road and has not ruled out staying beyond the summer if an agreement can be reached.

Harry Tyrer

Tyrer, born in Crosby, progressed through Everton’s academy from age seven. After signing his first professional contract in 2020, he gained experience through loans at Chester and Chesterfield, helping the latter secure EFL promotion. In August 2024, he joined Blackpool on loan, debuting in a 4–1 EFL Trophy win against Crewe Alexandra

Writer’s view

Blackpool’s interest in keeping Tyrer is more than just a passing comment – it’s a reflection of how important he’s become to their promotion hopes. While his parent club Everton may still hold the cards, the goalkeeper’s own desire to remain could be the deciding factor. For now, he’s focused on clean sheets and play-off places – but both he and Bruce clearly see this partnership lasting beyond May.

 

Gary Hutchinson is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Real EFL, which he launched in 2018 to offer dedicated coverage of the English Football League. A writer for over 20 years, Gary has contributed to Sky Sports and the Lincolnshire Echo, while also authoring Suited and Booted. He also runs The Stacey West and possesses a background in iGaming content strategy and English football betting. Passionate about football journalism, Gary continues to develop The Real EFL into a key authority in the EFL space.

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