Blackpool coach's parting message to youngsters after Bloomfield Road release

Blackpool announced the departure of several youngsters with the release of their retained list earlier this week.

Senior figure James Husband was the main headline, with the 32-year-old exiting after a seven-season stint on the Fylde Coast.

Meanwhile, Dan Sassi, Terry Bondo and Harvey Bardsley, who have all been in and around the first-team squad at various points, were also released at the end of their respective deals.

Teenagers Derek Oshodi and Harry Williamson also made up the six-man list of departures, with the two academy players leaving following the conclusion of their scholarships with the club.

Posting on X, the Seasiders shared the thoughts of youth coach Matthew Blinkhorn - who has helped to oversee the development of the pair.

"Derek (Oshodi) joined us as an U14 from Man Utd ET,” he stated.

“He was a consistent starter throughout his scholarship, producing a number of good performances. Both Derek and his family have committed a lot towards his development in the past four seasons, we thank them for their support throughout his journey.

“Derek made big strides during his time with us, making a couple of first team appearances in the Vertu trophy, his performance v Nottingham Forest being a real highlight. Derek was a big character within the group and will be missed. We wish Derek and his family the best of luck for the future.

“Harry (Williamson) has been a top, top kid for 10 years. His family have been unbelievable with us as well throughout that time. They left us to it and supported him in the right way.

“He’s a top, top person. With him being a Blackpool fan I was so pleased that he got to finish his time at the club, at Bloomfield Road as captain, with a hat-trick last Saturday.

“Harry will go on to be successful either in the game or outside of the game because of the type of person that he is.”

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