15 Blackpool players considered the best-ever signings at Bloomfield Road- gallery
Blackpool fans have been naming the greatest signings from throughout the club’s history.
By Amos Wynn
Published 25th Mar 2024, 18:00 BST
Bloomfield Road has welcomed a number memorable players down the years, with some certainly standing out above others, but who is considered the best acquisition by the Seasiders faithful.
We asked that question via our social media channels - and the response with phenomenal. Hundreds responded as supporters debated who represented the best value for money and who simply proved to be the best footballers brought to the Fylde Coast.
Here’s 15 of the standout names the Blackpool fans picked out:
Here’s 15 of the standout names the Blackpool fans picked out:
7. Stanley Matthews
Stanley Matthews is often regarded as one of the best in the history of British football, and was with the Seasiders between 1947 and 1961, in between his two stints with Stoke City. The England great passed away at the age of 85 in 2000. Facebook follower Derrill Carr wrote: "Stan Matthews for me is our best ever signing. During his time at Blackpool we were in three FA Cup finals, and won it in 1953, we were also runners up in Div 1 during what was the most successful playing period in our whole history. Stan Matthew while at Blackpool won the Ballon d'Or, capped by England 36 times and was National Player of the Year. Photo: Frank Harrison
Tommy Hutchison joined the Seasiders in 1968 from Alloa Athletic, and remained with the club until 1972. His career also included spells with Manchester City, Burnley and Swansea City, as well as representing Scotland. Photo: Express
Wes Hoolahan initially joined Blackpool on loan from Livingston in 2006, before making a permanent switch the following year. In 99 games for the Seasiders, he scored 16 goals and provided 15 assists. Photo: Phil Cole
World Cup winner Alan Ball arrived at Bloomfield Road in 1962, and was with the club for four years before making the move to Everton. He rejoined the Seasiders in 1980, with his other clubs including the likes of Arsenal and Southampton. The midfielder died at the age of 61 in 2007. Photo: Express
Scotland fullback Stephen Crainey on the Seasiders from Leeds United in 2007, and made 228 appearances for the club before his departure in 2013. Since finishing his playing career with Fylde in 2016, he has held one managerial position, which came with Fleetwood Town. Photo: Matthew Lewis
Brett Ormerod remains a popular figure at Bloomfield Road. He joined Blackpool twice during his career, helping the club to the Premier League in his second stint. Photo: ANDREW YATES