Belokon's £5m bonus boost for Wembley-bound Blackpool: 10th anniversary of promotion to the Premier League

It’s 10 years since the greatest achievement of Blackpool FC’s recent history: promotion to the Premier League for a season feasting on unforgettable football at the English game’s top table.
By Gavin Browne
Published 15th May 2020, 15:00 BST
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Blackpool boosted hopes by winning seven-goal Premier League thriller

We’re dipping into the archives each day to bring you

STEVE CANAVAN’S Gazette reports from a decade ago on Blackpool’s remarkable journey to the promised land.

Blackpool benefactor Valeri Belokon offered the players a bumper bonus for play-off gloryBlackpool benefactor Valeri Belokon offered the players a bumper bonus for play-off glory
Blackpool benefactor Valeri Belokon offered the players a bumper bonus for play-off glory

Ten years ago, the Seasiders’ squad had millions of reasons for a win at Wembley...

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Seasiders’ benefactor Valery Belokon has promised the squad a £5m bonus to share if they win at Wembley and reach the Premier League.

Play-off final rivals Cardiff’s players and staff are on a reported bonus of £2m.

Pool’s players were focused on finishing the job as they returned to training after two days off following the triumph at Nottingham Forest.

Manager Ian Holloway said: “ When I ask myself ‘can we?’ I am actually starting to believe we can because of who we have out there wearing that shirt and who else I have on the bench ready to come on.

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“Well done to the lads and thanks to the fans. We really want to keep this journey going. It will be tough but bring it on. I can’t wait for it and the players can’t either.

“It feels surreal because I thought we’d be on holiday by now, making decisions about next season... but I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

After scoring six over two legs against Forest, Pool aim to maintain their free-scoring form but must overcome an equally determined Cardiff.

After the penalty shootout victory over Leicester, Bluebirds boss Dave Jones said: “This club gets knocked from pillar to post, but hopefully we can take the final step against Blackpool.

“For the last three years we’ve been knocking on the door.

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“We’re a step closer this time and we just have to make sure we finish the job.”

Premier League referee Andre Marriner will take charge of the final.

The West Midlands-based official has flourished 115 yellow cards and 10 reds in 36 games this season.

His last Pool game was the 1-0 win at Crystal Palace 16 months ago, and he hasn’t refereed Cardiff since their draw with Derby in October 2006.

Pool supporters queued for hours to get Wembley tickets yesterday, and around 7,000 of the club’s 37,500 allocation have already been sold.

Related topics:Premier LeagueIan HollowayBlackpoolWembleyCardiff