Blackpool have held talks with Watford Under-21s coach Charlie Daniels as their search for a new manager gathers pace following the departure of Steve Bruce.
The Seasiders are considering several candidates but are yet to make a final decision, with interim boss Stephen Dobbie continuing to lead the side for now.
Daniels in Contention
Daniels, aged 39, has been among the coaches to speak with Blackpool’s hierarchy in recent days. The former AFC Bournemouth and Portsmouth defender is currently part of Watford’s youth setup, but his growing reputation as a coach has seen him linked with several EFL roles in recent months.
He was a contender for both the Cardiff City and Luton Town vacancies earlier this year, with the latter role ultimately going to Jack Wilshere. His emergence as a candidate at Bloomfield Road suggests Blackpool may once again be leaning toward a younger, progressive appointment, similar to when they enjoyed success under Neil Critchley.
The search follows Bruce’s dismissal earlier this month after a poor run of form left the Seasiders in the lower reaches of League One. Dobbie, who oversaw a 1-0 defeat to Stockport County at the weekend, will remain in temporary charge for Tuesday’s EFL Trophy fixture against Nottingham Forest’s Under-21s.
Experienced Playing Career
Daniels’ credentials come not only from his coaching work but also from an accomplished playing career. A product of Tottenham Hotspur’s academy, he went on to represent Leyton Orient, Gillingham, and Shrewsbury Town before enjoying his best years at Bournemouth.
He made more than 240 appearances for the Cherries between 2012 and 2020, playing a central role in their rise from League One to the Premier League under Eddie Howe. Later spells followed at Portsmouth and Colchester United before he retired to focus on coaching.
Charlie Daniels has since become an integral part of Watford’s youth structure, where his work developing young players has attracted attention from across the Football League. His connection to Howe, now Newcastle United’s manager, has further bolstered his standing as a bright coaching prospect.
Blackpool Take a Measured Approach
Blackpool are believed to have also sounded out Leam Richardson and Matt Bloomfield, both of whom remain high in the betting markets. However, club officials appear keen to avoid rushing into another short-term solution following recent high-profile appointments such as Bruce and Mick McCarthy.
The club’s current position is to take time evaluating candidates who fit both their football philosophy and long-term vision. Daniels’ blend of top-flight experience, coaching pedigree, and youthful energy could fit that mould, particularly if the club intends to re-establish the development pathway that thrived under Critchley’s earlier tenure.
League One
Writer’s View
Daniels’ emergence as a candidate feels like a natural progression for a coach who has quietly built an impressive post-playing CV. His technical background and calm presence would make him an intriguing choice for a club eager to rebuild after another managerial setback.
Whether the Seasiders opt for a younger coach like Daniels or turn to a more experienced figure such as Richardson, their next appointment must bring stability and direction. Blackpool’s revolving door of managers in recent seasons has hampered progress, and this latest decision could define whether the club moves forward or remains stuck in transition.
