Blackpool boss Gary Bowyer delighted to seal deals for versatile pair

Bringing versatile players to Blackpool has been a hallmark of Gary Bowyer's summer recruitment and that continued with yesterday's double signing.
McLaughlin in action for Oldham against Fleetwood Town last seasonMcLaughlin in action for Oldham against Fleetwood Town last season
McLaughlin in action for Oldham against Fleetwood Town last season
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Bola, a former Arsenal left-back, agreed a one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.

McLaughlin, 23, put pen to paper on a two-year contract at Bloomfield Road, again with the option of a further year.

Bola, pictured in action for Notts County, has agreed a one-year deal with the option of a further 12 monthsBola, pictured in action for Notts County, has agreed a one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months
Bola, pictured in action for Notts County, has agreed a one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months
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The right-back was out of contract but Pool have had to agree a compensation fee with his former club Oldham, as McLaughlin is not yet 24 and had been offered a new Latics deal.

Capped by Northern Ireland on five occasions, he has also represented his country at various youth levels prior.

The brother of Millwall’s former Fleetwood Town defender Conor McLaughlin, the defender joined Oldham from Liverpool in 2016.

He is also capable of playing on the wing and departs Oldham having made 61 appearances in two seasons.

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Manager Bowyer said: “I’m absolutely delighted to bring Ryan to the club.

“We have been working very hard on this deal all summer and his desire to join us has been incredible.

“He’s an exciting addition, capable of playing in a variety of positions and, in my opinion, he has all the qualities to play at a higher level.

“We’re looking forward to bringing that talent out during his time with us.”

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Bola, 20, was released by Arsenal at the end of last season, having been on their books since he was 13.

He spent the whole of last season on loan at Bristol Rovers, making 23 appearances, having been at Notts County for the second half of the previous campaign, making 13 appearances.

He never played a senior game for the Gunners.

While predominantly a left-back, Bola is also capable of playing on the right side of defence.

Bowyer added: “Marc is a very athletic player with a strong football background from his time at Arsenal.

“He played against us for Bristol Rovers last season and he fits the model of our recruitment.

“He’s young, hungry, determined to impress and will provide good competition in the defensive line.”