Blackpool may consider a move for former Bolton Wanderers boss Ian Evatt if they decide to part ways with Steve Bruce after a poor start to the League One season, as reported by Alan Nixon.
The Seasiders have slipped into the relegation zone after just one win in six matches under their experienced manager.
Evatt in the frame
According to reports, Evatt, 43, has been weighing up his options since leaving Bolton in January and could emerge as a candidate for a return to Bloomfield Road, where he remains a popular figure. The Coventry-born defender made over 250 appearances during a six-year spell as a player for Blackpool, including a memorable run that saw them reach the Premier League in 2010.
Since retiring in 2018, Evatt has carved out a managerial career that began with Barrow, leading the Cumbrian side to promotion from the National League. His success earned him the Bolton job in 2020, where he guided the Trotters out of League Two and lifted the EFL Trophy. Over 261 matches in charge, Evatt delivered a 50% win rate, earning plaudits for his possession-based style.
Blackpool’s hierarchy are said to be monitoring his situation closely should they lose faith in Bruce. While the 64-year-old was heavily backed in the summer transfer window, his tenure has yet to convince, with his side sitting among the early strugglers. His record stands at 34.5% wins from 55 matches since taking charge last term.
Bruce under pressure
The Tangerines’ last outing saw them draw 1-1 with Bolton Wanderers, a result that summed up their frustrations. They had led early only to be pegged back, extending a run of results that has kept them winless since the opening day. The board are understood to be keen for an upturn in performances after the international break, starting with a tough trip to Northampton Town.
Bruce, a veteran of promotions with Birmingham City and Hull City, has long been regarded as one of the EFL’s most seasoned figures. Yet the club’s supporters are restless, with patience thin after a disappointing start in a division they were tipped to challenge in.
Writer’s View
Blackpool’s decision in the coming weeks could define their season. Steve Bruce was recruited to steady the ship, but with the team languishing at the wrong end of the table, questions will inevitably grow louder. Ian Evatt offers a clear alternative: a modern coach with strong ties to Bloomfield Road and a proven track record of turning projects around.
Whether the Seasiders act now or wait until results worsen, the prospect of Evatt returning feels like more than idle speculation. If results continue to falter, change may be unavoidable.
