Ex-Blackpool and Birmingham City loanee takes on one-off role with League Two outfit
Joe Hart spent time on loan with Blackpool on his way to becoming an England international.
Blackpool have welcomed some future stars to their ranks over the years.
A number of notable names have been on the books at Bloomfield Road at various points throughout the club’s history.
One of the most-recent standout names has been Morgan Rogers. While loan spell in Tangerine wasn’t the most memorable, the 23-year-old has gone on to be an England regular after truly impressing at Aston Villa.
Other current Premier League figures who represented the Seasiders also includes Sean Longstaff, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Jacob Murphy.
Like Rogers, another ex-Blackpool loanee who went on to represent England was Joe Hart.
During the retired goalkeeper’s early days with Manchester City, he was sent away from Etihad on several occasions to pick up first-team experience.
This included a five-game stint on the Fylde Coast in 2007, during which time Simon Grayson’s then-side enjoyed a winning run as they stormed towards the League One play-offs.
Either side of this, Hart also spent time with Tranmere Rovers and Birmingham City, before establishing himself as the Citizens’ first-choice.
The 38-year-old would later go on to spend time with Burnley, Tottenham Hotspur and Celtic in the latter parts of his playing career in 2024, with his honours including two Premier League titles, three Scottish Premierships, and 75 international caps.
Former Blackpool keeper goes back to former club
Hart’s football journey started with Shrewsbury Town, and he was back at his former club on Tuesday night.
As a one-off favour, the ex-Blackpool loanee stepped in as the Salop’s goalkeeper coach for their 2-1 victory over Salford City.
“It was a lot of fun,” he told BBC Radio Shropshire.
“I know the goalkeeper coach situation at the moment and, obviously, I'm very close with Gav (Cowan). I wanted to come in and help.
"I wanted to use everything that I've amassed over the years, but at the same time I totally respect what the boys are building here and I'm not going to be a part of it come tomorrow. So, if I have helped in any way, great."
Ex-Blackpool coach in new role
Hart wasn’t the only former Seasiders figure involved in the midweek fixture at the Peninsula Stadium, with ex-first-team coach Steve Agnew among those in the home dugout.
The 60-year-old was part of Steve Bruce’s backroom staff during his time at Bloomfield Road, and is now working with the experienced manager’s son Alex under Karl Robinson.
Agnew’s new role with the Ammies was confirmed earlier this month as they battle for a play-off spot in League Two.
“I’m excited about this opportunity to help support Karl, Alex and the team with our challenge for promotion,” he told Salford’s club website.
“The season has been good so far but there is a long way to go and I’m looking forward to being involved and sharing my experience.”
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