Ormerod's salute to '˜incredible' Blackpool boss

The former striker said: “What Gary has done is nothing short of incredible. Bowyer had a similar experience at Blackburn, working at a club in a downturn, but he’s a very measured, calm individual and if there’s anyone who can keep the players focused he’s the perfect man to do it.”

Ormerod feels the circumstances at Blackpool make it impossible for Bowyer to make longer-term plans.

He explained: “It’s probably too unstable. He can only work short-term. There’s a court case going on with the Oystons and (club president) Mr Belokon and it’s involving a lot of money, which will certainly have repercussions on the club for good or bad.

“There’s so much uncertainty that all the manager and players can do is operate in the short term.

“I heard that Blackpool played some brilliant football in the first game at Bradford and were unlucky to get beat. They could well have beaten Wigan. It’s a new squad and will take time to bed in. If they can finish around mid-table that would be good.”

Early indications are that the climb to League One won’t affect the fans’ boycott and Ormerod says the lack of atmosphere at Bloomfield Road doesn’t make life any easier for Bowyer and his charges.

The 40-year-old added: “ We know how amazing Bloomfield Road is, but unfortunately there’s been more away fans than home fans and the atmosphere hasn’t been good in recent years.

“I spoke to a lot of fans who stayed away from the play-off final at Wembley because of the situation at the club. It must be gut-wrenching for the fans not to be able to properly support their club.”

You can read a full Ormerod interview at: https://sports.bwin.com/en/news/football-betting/brett-ormerod-interview,131572.html