Despite other results going their way on the final day of the season, the Seasiders’ 3-2 defeat to Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium meant they missed out on a place in the top six.
Heading into the summer, there’s plenty of things the hierarchy at Bloomfield Road need to address in order to ensure things are better in the 2024/25 campaign.
Here’s the six things we’ve picked out:
7. Add another striker
While brining back Rhodes would be a good attacking addition, Blackpool should also be looking to bring in another option up front. Without the Huddersfield Town loanee, the Seasiders struggled at times to create a threat in front of goal, with the other options proving too inconsistent. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
8. Add another striker (Continued)
Shayne Lavery is out of contract this summer after what’s been a frustrating season with injury for him, so if he was to leave, an opportunity to bring in a strong replacement has to be the priority when the transfer window first opens. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
9. Address the Lawrence-Gabriel situation
Jordan Lawrence-Gabriel's future has been a main topic in the last few weeks, amid reported interest from Lincoln City. Comments from his partner on social media raised more questions from fans, but Seasiders boss Neil Critchley states the defender is happy. Ensuring he stays this summer should be one of the club's main priorities. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
10. Plan around Apter
Rob Apter thrived while on loan with Tranmere Rovers, with the 21-year-old having 18 goal involvements in League One. When planning for the season ahead, the attacker should be at the centre of the club's plans. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
11. Key defensive decisions
First of all, Blackpool should be doing everything in their power to ensure Marvin Ekpiteta (pictured) and James Husband extend their stays at Bloomfield Road. The defence was one of the Seasiders' main strengths last season, and if improved upon further can help them to a better campaign. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
12. Key defensive decisions (Continued)
Ekpiteta might've had a poor first half of the campaign, but he has looked solid throughout the past few months, and certainly proved why the club should be keeping him. Equally, if he doesn't sign a new deal, then it will provide Blackpool a chance to invest in a really strong replacement- which would have to be priority. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker