The three Blackpool FC youngsters who could be considered to fill gap against Leyton Orient

Blackpool will be looking to get their League One survival mathematically across the line this weekend - but could still turn to one of their youngsters to help fill the matchday squad.

Heading into their final two games, the Seasiders sit six points and five places clear of the relegation zone, with their recent strong run of form lifting them away from trouble.

Ian Evatt’s side will be hoping to get the job finalised on Saturday afternoon against Leyton Orient, but will have to do it with several players absent.

Both Fraser Horsfall and Hayden Coulson will be unavailable due to suspension after their respective sending offs in the past fortnight.

Meanwhile, Michael Ihiekwe and Albie Morgan are both ruled out for the season, and have long been out of the equation.

In addition to this, Evatt admitted after last weekend’s 1-0 victory over Wycombe Wanderers that he wasn’t planning on risking either George Honeyman or Josh Bowler due to Blackpool’s improved position in the table.

Here’s a look at the youngsters who could earn a place in the matchday squad on Saturday:

Oluchi Nwankwo

Oluchi Nwankwo is the obvious contender to step up this weekend due to his position.

The Seasiders are short defensively, with Zac Ashworth more than likely to step up to replace Coulson, which would leave Andy Lyons as the only back-up on the bench.

Nwankwo has conducted himself well on his senior debut away to Tranmere Rovers in the EFL Trophy earlier this season, and Evatt has previously admitted he’s a fan of the 17-year-old.

Alongside his opportunities to train with the Blackpool first-team, the teenager has also picked up senior experience in recent months while playing for Bamber Bridge.

Theo Upton

Theo Upton is the U18s player who has enjoyed the most exposure to first-team action.

Since making his senior debut in the EFL Trophy back in September 2024, the midfielder has made five senior appearances, with one coming in League One earlier this season.

The 18-year-old has also spent time on loan with Matlock Town in recent times, and bagged a hat-trick for the Northern Premier League Premier Division at the beginning of March.

Jack Richardson

Jack Richardson is also among the youngsters who have earned opportunities to train with Evatt’s side.

The versatile midfielder made his Seasiders debut against Crewe Alexandra in the EFL Trophy last season, and featured twice in the same competition this term.

While it’s likely Blackpool will look to an additional defensive option for their bench this weekend, both Upton and Richardson could be in contention if they look to depth in another area.

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