Blackpool FC appoint Sam Oyston as new chief executive

The 24-year-old, who remains involved in the running of the Blackpool FC Hotel, takes over from Alex Cowdy who left his role over the weekend.

A club statement reads: "Blackpool Football Club has appointed Sam Oyston as its new chief executive.

"Oyston, who has been employed by the club for the past six-and-a-half years, has recently taken a more active role in the day-to-day running of the business and will oversee the club’s retail, ticketing, commercial and corporate operations, as well as continue to manage the Blackpool FC Hotel and Conference Centre.

"Interim club Secretary Steve Edwards will be responsible for football administration matters."

The news has been met with disbelief from Blackpool fans who are determined to see the Oystons sell the club.

Sam, the son of Karl, has been heavily involved with the recent round of redundancies at the club, having been given the responsibility of sending out letters to those staff affected and holding meetings.

Despite being diagnosed with a long-term illness last year, The Gazette has been told it has not and will not affect any of his duties.

In June of last year, the club took the unusual step of issuing a statement regarding Sam's illness through Valeri Belokon, who at the time was involved in a bitter court case with the Oystons.

The news comes after Alex Cowdy was removed from the role of chief executive on the weekend.

Cowdy's departure was announced on the club's website less than an hour after the team had drawn 0-0 with Bristol Rovers on Saturday.

The club confirmed he would leave his role with "immediate effect".

The news came as a shock as Cowdy was present at Blackpool's fixture and was seen in the tunnel area post-match.

More to follow...