Blackpool close in on Pugh because versatility is vital

The 33-year-old can play in several positions in defence and midfield, and Pool manager Bowyer believes versatility could be a massive benefit following the scrapping of the emergency loan system.

Bowyer explained: “I think a lot will be asked of the squad this year. It will be interesting to see how clubs cope without the loan window. We may need one or two more players than in the past.

“We aren’t in a position where we can dip into the loan market now, so all clubs will have to be aware of that.”

The need for clubs to keep players fit and healthy will become greater without the option to bring in reinforcements on loan outside the summer and January transfer windows.

Bowyer added: “It will be important we train well and recover. We will be putting things in place to make sure the players have the best chance of being in shape to cope with the amount of games they’ll be playing.”

Blackpool start their League Two campaign on August 6 at home to Exeter, by which time Bowyer hopes to have his whole squad in place.

And as the days tick away before the big kick-off, the manager admits excitement is growing.

He said: “We are really looking forward to it. We know what we are coming up against with Exeter but they’ll all be like that. There’s no easy ride in League Two.”