Blackpool boss shares what he wants from ex-Preston North End and Luton Town midfielder as he looks for consistent minutes
Josh Bowler has endured mixed fortunes since his return to Blackpool in the summer.
Blackpool boss Ian Evatt states it’s important for Josh Bowler to maintain the high level of performance he’s capable of on a consistent basis.
The 26-year-old became a popular figure at Bloomfield Road during his first stint in Tangerine between 2021 and 2022.
His performances caught the eye of Nottingham Forest, but after making the move to the City Ground, he was unable to make a senior appearance for the Reds.
Instead, he was sent out on loan on five separate occasions. Following a stint with Olympiacos, he was sent back out to the Fylde Coast, and was part of the Seasiders squad that suffered relegation from the Championship in 2023, before later spending time with Cardiff City, Preston North End and Luton Town.
With none of those stints working out and opportunities remaining limited with Forest, Bowler was released by the Premier League outfit back in September - which facilitated a permanent return to Blackpool.
Despite being back in familiar surroundings, the ex-Everton youngster has still struggled to rediscover his best.
After being signed to play as a winger under Steve Bruce, he’s slotted into a more central attacking midfield role since Evatt’s appointment in October.
On a couple of occasions, Bowler has been able to shine in his new position, but has still struggled to deliver consistently.
Evatt issues verdict on Blackpool midfielder
In the last few weeks, he’s mainly been used as an option off the bench, and was able to produce some positive signs in his most recent cameo as a substitute in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Bolton Wanderers.
“When I first came, that was the level Josh was at,” Evatt said.
“We need him to do that more consistently because when he does, he’s a hard player to stop.
“He’s a really nice lad, and very emotional - he needs support from me, support from his teammates, and support from supporters.
“He’s not one that takes critique well, he wants more positive messaging, and if we can give him that then he’ll provide for us what we’ve seen on occasions in the past.
“The thing for Josh is, he’s got to make sure that level is maintained and remains the same, because when it dips it’s hard for us to stick with it - we’ve got to do what we feel is right for the team.
“In terms of talent, he’s incredible. I’m hopeful we can find a role for Josh in any system for him to go and showcase his talents.
“It’s not just about showcasing that talent with the ball, it’s about what we do without it, because the good teams are the best without the ball as well, and that’s what we need to become.”
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