Which youngster will break in to First Team?

[Cable Cat]

So, do we think any of our youngsters will break in to the first team next season?

Stephen Dobbie believes a handful of Blackpool's youngsters will be given further opportunities to cut their teeth in the game next season.

The Seasiders' Development Squad coach, who had a six-match spell as interim manager of the first team last term, says the club's future generation deserve the chance to prove themselves in League One.

The 40-year-old Scotsman used his stint in the hot seat to blood some of his Under 23 Central League Cup winners, with the likes of Alex Lankshear, Rob Apter and Brad Holmes all getting their chance to shine on the big stage.

Defender Lankshear, 20, came off the bench to replace Jordan Thorniley in the Tangerines' final fixture in the Championship, stepping in to help his team-mates see out victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road.

Midfielder Apter, also 20, who has had spells on loan at Chester and Scunthorpe United, also earned his second tier bow against the Canaries, replacing Sonny Carey with 20 minutes to go.

And striker Holmes, who made five appearances in the third tier under returning head coach Neil Critchley during 2020/21, featured in games versus West Brom, Birmingham City and Millwall last season.

 

[Lost Seasider]

I'd say all 3 will feature at times, but it'll probably depend upon injuries and signings.

 

[hertfordseasider]

Tayt Trusty and Rob Apter. Brad Holmes possibly too. There’s the young centre half too, Insy will remind me of his name, he looks a class act, they will all be wanting to have a good pre-season but it’s down to Quich and in my opinion, he is less likely to play them than Dobb’s would have. Be really great to get some of our youngsters in the team this season.

 

[Sandgrown1]

I thought Apter was the best of them and may be the one to break into the first team and given a chance over a run of games.

 

[Tangerinenick]

I hope at least 3.

 

[Cleveleys boy]

Apter surely? He's looked decent everytime I've watched him. Holmes as a squad player

 

[Hooleys]

In real terms possibly all three plus the current remaining squad but more importantly we need to add a strong spine of permanent signings centre half, midfielder defensively and attacking and a striker topped up with 3ish loans IMO

 

[Seasiderblock]

Will Squires will feature this season

 

[tangerine_neil]

Under Dobbie: quite a few. I’d probably say Apter.
Under Critchley: none, unless forced by circumstances

 

[look.its.luke]

Apter looks nailed on. Not sure if counted as a youngster but I think Tharne looks a decent player.

 

[Wilburrabbit]

Tayt Trusty and Rob Apter. Brad Holmes possibly too. There’s the young centre half too, Insy will remind me of his name, he looks a class act, they will all be wanting to have a good pre-season but it’s down to Quich and in my opinion, he is less likely to play them than Dobb’s would have. Be really great to get some of our youngsters in the team this season.

Do you mean Johnson Opawole? Might be a season too early for him.

 

[hertfordseasider]

Do you mean Johnson Opawole? Might be a season too early for him.

Yes, he looks really good, you may be right but I hope he keeps improving and getting stronger.

 

[Lost Seasider]

Apter looks nailed on. Not sure if counted as a youngster but I think Tharne looks a decent player.

He doesn't turn 21 until January, so if I understand the rules correctly, he'll continue to count as a U21 player for 2023/24 and 2024/25.

 

[voyeur]

Yes, he looks really good, you may be right but I hope he keeps improving and getting stronger.

How much have you seen him play?

I think he's still 17. One for the future.

 

[hertfordseasider]

How much have you seen him play?

I think he's still 17. One for the future.

Seen him a couple of times, he played in the final which was on TV and he with Tayt Trusty and Rob Apter looked really really good. He certainly isn't a Curtis Nelson type, he was calm on the ball and always passed it out from the back and looked strong in the tackle and good in the air. You have to hope some of these young players make the first team, I think there is more investment in the player if this happens.

 

[hertfordseasider]

How much have you seen him play?

Oh fuck off!!!

 

[ParkerAteMyKebab]

Can honestly say I've never seen any of them play although my mate is a Bamber Bridge fan and he speaks highly of Apter - says he might have struggled in the Championship but is more than good enough at League One level.

 

[SwannDangerous]

None. Lol.

 

[voyeur]

I changed my vote from Apter to Lankshear. Both might get a look in.

LB wise we have Hubby Thompson James and maybe Lyons. I think James will probably leave. Hubby may cover lcb. Lankshear useful cover maybe.

 

[Sadler's Brylcreem]

Wonder what chances Jake Daniels has next season - Critch gave him a chance at Derby and so clearly rates him.

 

[Insider]

Wonder what chances Jake Daniels has next season - Critch gave him a chance at Derby and so clearly rates him.

Jake needs to come back focused on football after all his off-field issues but as a consequence needs 12 months of football outside of the 1st IMO.
As others have said Johnson needs a bit longer and we have another promising striker coming through in Taylor Bowen (still.an u/18).

 

[hertfordseasider]

Donovan Lescott is one to watch in the development squad too. He is fast and skilful so will be keeping an eye on his progress this season Insy.

 

[Insider]

Donovan Lescott is one to watch in the development squad too. He is fast and skilful so will be keeping an eye on his progress this season Insy.

Yes he's a way to go but is improving under the watchful eye of his Dad who is a frequent attendee at Development games.