Blackpool decision on ex-Birmingham City man explained as contract talks approach
Bailey Peacock-Farrell is among the players out of contract at Blackpool this summer.
Blackpool boss Ian Evatt made the decision to drop first-choice goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell for the final game of the season away to Reading.
The Northern Ireland international has featured 46 times in all competitions for the Seasiders throughout the 2025/26 campaign - keeping 12 clean sheets in total.
While his stint on the Fylde Coast initially started as a loan spell from Birmingham City, his move was made permanent in January following the mutual termination of his deal at St Andrew’s.
With his short-term contract coming to an end in the next month, Blackpool will now need to negotiate with Peacock-Farrell to keep him at Bloomfield Road next season.
Following the mathematical confirmation of the Seasiders’ League One safety in recent weeks, a rare opportunity was handed to Franco Ravizzoli between the sticks at the Select Cars Leasing Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Since making the move to Lancashire, the 28-year-old has been restricted to just four league games, but has still played his part behind-the-scenes.
“Bailey has been brilliant for us, and hopefully we can have a good go at keeping him moving forwards,” Evatt explained.
“It was a reward for Franco today because he’s been in a difficult position. He came here to compete for that number one jersey, and has sat on the sidelines this season, but when we’ve asked him to play, he’s been brilliant.
“In a really difficult position, and difficult circumstances, he’s been a brilliant man and a superb teammate - really positive and energetic. Great information to the team and really supportive to Bailey.
“Today was Bailey’s turn to support Franco for all of the support he’s received throughout the season.”
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