Blackpool boss makes 'proud' admission amid Colchester United and Rotherham United interest in striker
Kylian Kouassi looks set to depart Blackpool before the end of the transfer window.
Blackpool boss Ian Evatt admits he’s proud of Kylian Kouassi as the striker ponders his next move.
The 23-year-old has been at Bloomfield Road since 2023, but has spent the last two seasons out on loan with Salford City and Cambridge United.
After reuniting with the Seasiders at the start of the summer for pre-season, the ex-Sutton United man has been called upon in the opening weeks of the campaign due to injuries up front for the Fylde Coast outfit.
Jerry Yates’ return to Blackpool last week pushed Kouassi further down the pecking order for when everyone’s fit, and is set to result in a move for the forward before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
Both Colchester United and Rotherham United are reportedly interested, with the final decision in the player’s hands.
“There’s a lot of interest in Kylian, and I’m so pleased for him,” Evatt said.
“I can only judge him from what I’ve seen, but he’s been first-class on and off the pitch from the minute I took pre-season.
“Whatever happens, I’m proud of him for what he’s done, and will always be here as a support.
“There’s a huge amount of interest, and now Kylian has a choice for himself, which is something he should be pleased with because he’s worked hard for it.”
In terms of Blackpool’s own business, Evatt hasn’t ruled dipping into the market before 11pm on September 1.
“You never really know, I think we’re always active and Simon’s (Sadler) support has been phenomenal since I’ve come,” he added.
“We’ll always look to make the best decisions, and we’ll see how the next few days pan out.”