Friends reunited for Blackpool FC's Pugh

Danny Pugh comes up against one of his former clubs this afternoon

Pugh (pictured) turned down a new deal at Bury to join Blackpool on July 18 after spending some time with Bowyer’s side during a pre-season training camp in Scotland.

But the 33-year-old experienced, versatile former Manchester United player says pre-season is all about building up fitness and preparing for the new season in August rather than the opposition.

He said: “The games have gone fine and training has been good too.

“I am straight back (against Bury) and I will see a few familiar faces

“It is all about getting the fitness in at this stage in the season and getting as many minutes under our belts as possible.”

And Pugh who can play at left-back, on the left wing, or in the middle of the park says he has been impressed with what he has seen of his team mates so far.

He said: “I’ve been really impressed with the lads throughout, I’ve only had a week with them but we look strong in all departments really.

“I think there may be a couple more (players) coming through possibly but there is a lot to look forward too and I’m confident with what I’ve seen.”

Pool boss Gary Bowyer has already spoken of his delight at landing Pugh for the new League Two season.

As well as experience on the pitch, he also provides a versatility across a number of positions.

That ability to play where asked will be a great benefit to Bowyer given the change in regulations this season with the emergency loan.

That has been scrapped, meaning clubs can only do their deals during the designated transfer windows.

“What Danny Pugh does bring is a great flexibility in where he can play,” Bowyer said.

“He played left-back the other day, he can play of the left of a four in midfield and we need that with the loan window being closed – not having the emergency loan window available to us.

“People that can play in a variety of positions are going to be valuable to us.”