Marvin Ekpiteta, Matty Virtue, Shayne Lavery and Callum Connolly will all leave Bloomfield Road, alongside a number of youngsters from the Seasiders’ development squad. Meanwhile, James Husband remains in talks concerning his future, as he enters the latter stages of his current deal.
The club’s retained list also confirmed Jordan Rhodes, Karamoko Dembele, Hayden Coulson and George Byers had come to the end of their loan spells on the Fylde Coast.
Here’s our verdict on the first team departures and a closer look at the youngsters heading for the exit door:
7. Marvin Ekpiteta
Marvin Ekpiteta first arrived at Bloomfield Road back in 2020, after making the move from Leyton Orient. He quickly established himself as a solid figure at the back, and was named as the club’s player of the year for the 2021/22 campaign following his impressive performances in the Championship. After a shaky start to the most recent season, the 28-year-old soon rediscovered his best form, and made 31 appearances in League One in total. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
8. VERDICT
Ekpiteta's departure is the biggest blow of the four. Despite an inconsistent campaign, he still demonstrated what an asset he could be at the back, and no doubt he'll get some Championship offers. Nonetheless, the Seasiders still have strong alternative defensive options they can build around. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
9. Mackenzie Chapman
Following his arrival from Bolton Wanderers last summer, Mackenzie Chapman featured on the bench a few times for the Seasiders as well as playing for the development. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
10. Dannen Francis
Dannen Francis spent time on loan with Workington AFC this season, as well as playing for the development squad. He was also on the bench for the EFL Trophy game against Liverpool U21s earlier this season. Photo: CameraSport -
11. Brad Holmes
Brad Holmes made eight senior appearances for the Seasiders during his time at Bloomfield Road. Throughout last season, he spent time out on loan with both Southport and Dunfermline Athletic FC. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
12. Donovan Lescott
Donovan Lescott was among the youngsters who made their senior debuts in the EFL Trophy tie against Morecambe in November. The midfielder, who is the son of former England international Joleon Lescott, joined the Seasiders from Salford City back in 2022. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker