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Blackpool did not have the greatest of starts to the new campaign, as they were beaten 3-2 at home by Stevenage.
Steve Bruce will have promotion ambitions this season, but there are still plenty of improvements that need to be made to ensure that the Seasiders are in with a shout for a top six finish in League One.
Injuries were a major concern heading into the Tangerines’ first match, but with Dale Taylor set to move to Bloomfield Road, the future does look brighter.
Now, Blackpool are edging closer to another signing, and one that will capture the attention of Derby County supporters.
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Blackpool are set to sign Malcolm Ebiowei from Crystal Palace
As per Alan Nixon, the Lancashire outfit have been in talks with Crystal Palace about the services of Malcolm Ebiowei. While a loan deal has previously been touted, a permanent move is now being arranged.
He’s found it tough in recent years since leaving Derby, and this could be a fresh start for the winger. Nixon said: “Blackpool are signing Crystal Palace winger Malcolm Ebiowei in a full time deal.
“Ebiowei has been in talks with the Seasiders for two weeks, as first revealed here, but the move sped up when it became permanent.
“The exciting winger had some bad experiences with previous loans but Steve Bruce showed commitment by taking him in a full move.”
Blackpool had also been pushing for free agent Randall Williams, but our Chief Football Correspondent Graeme Bailey has told EFL Analysis that a move is now off for the ex-Bolton Wanderers man over some complications with the deal.
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Wayne Rooney is a huge fan of Malcolm Ebiowei
While it has not been an overly successful few years for the 21-year-old, he may finally get his chance at consistent football in an ambitious environment at Blackpool.
Ironically, his first senior goal came at Bloomfield Road in 2022 as Derby ran out 2-0 winners just days after they were relegated to League One.
Wayne Rooney brought the ex-Rangers youngster into the first team that season as the Rams battled against administration with a team of inexperienced youth players and veterans. Nevertheless, the Manchester United legend was extremely impressed by Ebiowei.
He said in March 2022 (via: Derbyshire Live): “I thought he was excellent all game, best player on the pitch. It was one of the best performances I have seen from a young player, consistently for 90 minutes, in a long time.
“He deserved that because he has worked extremely hard. His attitude is incredible, he wants to learn and he is an exciting young player. I am delighted for him and his family because I know it means a lot for him.”