Bowyer wants to solve Potts problem

The midfield man struggled in his first season at Bloomfield Road after joining the club for £125,000 with a big reputation last summer.

Despite playing in almost every game, the 21-year-old never reached his clear potential and ended the season a frustrated looking figure.

But new manager Bowyer revealed he’s spoken to the former Carlisle man about his future and is convinced he can be a key figure in the coming season.

“I’ve already met up with Brad Potts and got him down to speak to him,” explained Bowyer.

“I’ve outlined my plans with him and told him I have big hopes for him in the future.

“I think you have to remember Brad is still a young lad, he’s just 21-years-old.

“Despite his age he’s got 150 games under his belt which is phenomenal for someone who’s 21.

“There are times where I think we simply expect too much of these young lads.”

Potts was on the end of some supporter criticism last season, with most expecting big things from a player with clear ability.

But Bowyer is hoping to take the weight of his shoulders, and finally bring the best out of him in a Pool shirt.

He said: “Brad’s fine, he’s not going to be a problem for us, he’s coming back willing to work very hard.

“We are going to work very hard with him and try to make him better as a player.

“We’ve identified where I see him playing in my team and I’m looking forward to working with him.

It’s likely Potts will be used in an advanced midfield role with Bowyer looking to add a much more attacking style to the Seasiders.

Two of his three signings so far have been strikers, on top of Jack Redshaw, Mark Cullen and Danny Philliskirk who remain at the club already.

Something which the new manager feels will be key.

Adding: “It’s a big bonus the options we have available in attack.

“We have to score goals to win matches, it’s as simple as that.

“With the players we have now in attack we feel we are capable of doing that this season.”