Blackpool assistant coach Steve Agnew has revealed growing optimism in the dressing room ahead of the Seasiders’ 2025–26 League One opener against Stevenage this weekend.
While summer preparations have been far from smooth, Agnew insists the squad is ready to hit the ground running at Bloomfield Road on Saturday.
Agnew Talks Up Atmosphere as Seasiders Target Fast Start
After a five-week pre-season that included a warm-weather camp in Spain and mixed results in friendlies, Blackpool have shown flashes of attacking promise. However, a lack of cutting edge in the final third and a series of injuries—most notably to Tom Bloxham and CJ Hamilton—have left the squad looking light in key areas.
That hasn’t dented the mood around the camp, with Agnew highlighting the positive environment fostered under Steve Bruce’s leadership.
“There’s a feel-good factor around the club, so I’m sure it’ll be bouncing at Bloomfield Road,” Agnew said. “We can’t wait to get going.”
The assistant coach acknowledged that pre-season form is rarely an accurate predictor of how a team will start the season, and instead emphasised fitness and tactical flexibility as key takeaways from the summer.
“We’ve been at it now for five weeks. The fitness levels in Spain were really good. We picked up one or two injuries—which is always disappointing. We’ve had to adapt tactically this week, but as coaches, we’re all looking forward to the build-up to Stevenage.”
Squad Gaps Remain But Belief Grows
While several strong signings have arrived at Bloomfield Road this summer, including experienced reinforcements through the spine of the team, the departures of key wide players and the injury setbacks have raised concerns over squad depth. Bruce has been clear in his desire to add at least one more winger before the transfer window closes.
Nevertheless, there’s confidence among the coaching staff that the current group has the mentality and physical preparation to make a fast start—particularly with home advantage on opening day.
“Pre-seasons are always the same,” Agnew added. “There’s never any consistency to it. You can go through and be really good with everything in place, but then take complacency into the first league game. Or, if everything’s not gone well, all of a sudden you can hit the ground running. That’s our experience, so we’re quietly confident that we’ll be ready.”
Writer’s View
There’s no denying that Blackpool enter the new campaign with a few questions hanging over them. Injuries have disrupted their rhythm and left them light in wide areas, but the core of the team is experienced and battle-tested. Steve Bruce’s presence brings a calm authority, and Agnew’s comments suggest the dressing room is fully tuned in.
If the Seasiders can navigate these early weeks and reinforce smartly before the deadline, they’ll be well-placed to mount another serious challenge for the top six. Saturday is just the beginning—but the mood is quietly optimistic.
