Blackpool youngster pens professional deal as Wigan Athletic and Aston Villa cup ties are confirmed

Teenager Oli Hunter has signed his first professional contract with Blackpool.

The youngster joined the Seasiders from Blackburn Rovers last summer, and was part of the U18s squad that tasted success in the LFA Professional Youth Cup.

Due to the absence of several senior players, the 17-year-old has been around Ian Evatt’s first-team squad so far this season, featuring on the teamsheet as part of the bench on several occasions.

After putting pen to paper on his pro deal until June 2028, Hunter said: "It’s an unreal feeling to have signed this contract.

“It’s been my main aim for a while, but this is only the first step for me, I need to keep striving. I feel privileged to have signed a pro-contract with this club.”

Earlier this month, Evatt discussed Hunter’s opportunities around the senior squad, and how it could prove beneficial in the long-term.

“Oli has stepped forward, like Oluchi (Nwankwo) did in pre-season, like Theo (Upton) did,” he stated.

“When we have these injuries there’s opportunities for these young players to come up here and start to train with us.

“We get a good look at them. Oli has impressed me, I think he’s got a bright future. He’s not there yet, he’s not ready yet, but he’s learning all of the time.

“He’s picking good habits up around here, which is important for young players, and it can only bode well for his future.”

There could be an opportunity for Hunter and other youngsters to get some game time in the EFL Trophy over the coming months.

Blackpool’s first group game away to Wigan Athletic will go ahead at the Brick Community Stadium next Tuesday (September 22) despite falling in the international, while Crewe Alexandra will visit Bloomfield Road a fortnight after (October 6).

Meanwhile, the date of Aston Villa U21s’ trip to the Fylde Coast has now also been confirmed, with the fixture taking place on October 27.

All three group games will kick off at 7pm.