Bowyer speaks out on Blackpool transfer targets

The Pool boss has wasted no time in adding to his squad since taking over from Neil McDonald and made three signings last week.

Bowyer has already added midfielder Colin Daniel and strikers Jamille Matt and Kyle Vassell to the 15-man squad he inherited at Bloomfield Road, and he is in the process of adding more.

It is understood that a left-back is next on the manager’s wish-list and that talks with an experienced target are at an advanced stage.

And Bowyer told The Gazette exactly where he is looking to strengthen his squad.

“We are targeting a couple of defenders, experienced ones, and a man in midfield who can grab hold of the ball and get us playing,” he said.

“I’m very pleased with the business we’ve done but I’m now looking to build on that.”

All three of Bowyer’s additions so far are designed to boost their attack after the new boss studied Pool’s games last season.

A lack of goals was a constant issue for McDonald’s relegated side and Bowyer revealed that discussions with contacts in the game influenced his transfer dealings.

He said: “I have spoken to plenty of managers lately to pick their brains about what’s needed in League Two. They all said you need plenty of options in attack and plenty of firepower. We certainly have that now.

“The three signings are good ones. They come in areas I’d identified as ones we needed to strengthen.

“All three players bring something different. They bring power, pace and some size to the team, and we now have some firepower in attack.”

Bowyer’s only experience in the fourth tier of English football was as a player with Hereford in 1989-90, though he has put his six months out of the game after being sacked by Blackburn to good use.

As well as travelling around Europe observing different training methods, Bowyer also prepared himself for League Two.

He explained: “When you’re out of work, you look at all levels of football and that’s what I did. I attended games throughout the leagues and I like to think I covered all the bases.

“The three players we’ve signed were prominent for me and it was always a case of trying to bring them in quickly, which we managed to do.”

Besides seeking new players, the manager has also sounded out his current squad in an attempt to find out their thoughts on the coming season.

He explained: “I’ve spoken to the players now. I’ve made the calls and spoken to them, which I thought was important to do.

“I’m fortunate I know one or two of the players – like Tom Aldred, who I worked with at Blackburn’s academy and know well – so that has helped.

“We have made inroads and I can’t wait to get the players back and get to work. That’s when the real work will start.”