Blackpool head coach Ian Evatt has publicly congratulated his ex-Blackpool teammate Rob Edwards after the latter’s appointment as head coach of Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Blackpool boss Evatt, who spent 3 seasons as a player at Bloomfield Road, expressed his delight for fellow former Blackpool defender Rob Edwards, after Edwards was confirmed as manager of Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Although the appointment places Edwards back in the Premier League, it brings a mixed mood for Evatt and the Seasiders, as they prepare for their next challenge in League One.
Blackpool Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Ian Evatt as Head Coach on a deal until June 2028.
🍊 #UTMP
— Blackpool FC (@BlackpoolFC) October 21, 2025
Evatt Reflects On Shared History With Edwards
Evatt recalled his time playing at Blackpool alongside Edwards between 2008 and 2011, stating:
“I’m delighted for him … I’m sure we’ll catch up when he’s got time and I’ve got time.”
He emphasised that Edwards “grabbed it with both hands” on taking the opportunity in the top flight. While acknowledging the move was Edwards’ decision, Evatt stressed that the path of player and manager often involves difficult choices.
“He’s a good friend of mine and I’ll support him as a friend.”
The two men played together at Bloomfield Road and shared memories of the 2010 Premier League promotion season, giving Evatt a personal connection to Edwards’ latest success.
Welcome back, Rob Edwards 🐺
🗞️ https://t.co/wev3xlkSk0 pic.twitter.com/ayefCHi64R
— Wolves (@Wolves) November 12, 2025
Blackpool Focus Turns Back To League One Campaign
For Blackpool, the spotlight now shifts back to their own fight in League One under Evatt’s leadership. Having taken over in October 2025, Evatt has brought a renewed atmosphere to the club and stressed the importance of consistency and ambition.
The club face a difficult upcoming schedule and will be determined to avoid distractions amid off-field changes. The departure of a former teammate to the Premier League serves as both motivation and reminder of the levels ahead.
Evatt, appointed on a multi-year deal, emphasises that the club remain focused on their own trajectory. While he politely stepped back from commenting on Edwards’ decision-making, the sentiments shared highlight a strong bond from their playing days and a mutual respect. For Blackpool, it is business as usual, but with the acknowledgement that the Premier League remains the ultimate goal for both men, albeit on different paths.
Blackpool supporters will welcome the clear lines of communication and respect shown by Evatt, and will hope the club’s own journey mirrors the professional successes of figures like Edwards. As the Seasiders continue their League One campaign, the message of commitment, ambition and shared history remains central.
