Bowyer will battle to keep Aldred at Blackpool

The defender is being eyed up by a host of League One clubs after his all-action displays for the Seasiders last season.

Despite relegation for Pool, Aldred was one of the club’s best performers.

That is something which hasn’t gone unnoticed as rivals look to take advantage of off-the-field drama to nick a bargain.

But Bowyer has revealed he has already spoken to the defender, who’s currently overseas on holiday, and hopes to build his side around him next season.

“We have to keep Tom Aldred, very much so,” insisted the Blackpool boss.

“It will be a big plus for us if we can keep hold of Tom, he epitomises everything I want to bring here.

“He works hard, is dedicated and shows real commitment.

“It doesn’t surprise me other clubs are interested in him and hopefully we can keep him at Blackpool.”

A couple of Pool’s players saw clauses in their contracts activated which would allow them to leave.

That includes Pool’s keeper, Colin Doyle, who would be available for just a pound.

But Bowyer isn’t ready to allow his better players to walk away, and insists he is under no pressure to let anyone leave.

He said: “I’m under no instructions to sell anyone or get rid of anyone.

“Saying that, there’s no club in the country that isn’t a selling club though.

“Manchester United sold Cristiano Ronaldo, Tottenham sold Gareth Bale, at times all clubs sell players.

“I won’t bury my head in the sand and think we won’t ever sell a player, sometimes it just happens.

“But I’m under no pressure to sell anyone here, so hopefully we will keep the ones we want to.”