Blackpool's stance on Grant Ward after former Ipswich Town man features in Central League game

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com 
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Visit Shots! now
Grant Ward made a surprise appearance for Blackpool’s development side on Tuesday.
Read More
How James Husband, Matty Virtue and CJ Hamilton performed during Blackpool's Cen...

The 27-year-old started as Stephen Dobbie’s men began their Central League campaign with a 2-1 win against Bolton Wanderers, thanks to goals from Beryly Lubala and CJ Hamilton.

Ward is still without a club after being released by the Seasiders and continues to train with Michael Appleton’s side to help build up his fitness.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

However, it’s understood another contract at Bloomfield Road is not on the cards.

When Appleton was asked last week if Ward could be a potential solution to Blackpool’s midfield crisis, he simply said: “no”.

The Seasiders are currently down to the bare bones in central midfield, with Callum Connolly, Kenny Dougall and Matty Virtue their only fit and available options.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad
Ward featured for Blackpool's development side on TuesdayWard featured for Blackpool's development side on Tuesday
Ward featured for Blackpool's development side on Tuesday

Ward spent time on trial with Reading earlier this summer but he’s yet to find himself a new permanent home.

He was let go by the Seasiders at the end of last season after being limited to just five appearances, having suffered a ruptured achilles during the game against Bournemouth in August 2021.

To allow Ward to continue his rehabilitation, the midfielder was invited back for the start of Blackpool’s pre-season to help him work his way back to full fitness.

After a brief spell with Reading, Ward returned to Bloomfield Road where he featured as a trialist during the friendlies against Rangers and Salford City.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The former Ipswich Town man was hooked off at half-time during the Salford friendly following a below-par display.

After the game, Appleton told The Gazette: “We’ll sit down with him before the end of the week and have a chat with him.

“He looked a little bit off it, I think everyone can see that, so I’ll speak to the coaching staff and the board and see where we’re at with things.

“But we’ve got to make the right decision by the football club more than anything.”

News you can trust since 1873
Follow us
©National World Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice