Exclusive: Don Goodman drops "promising" Blackpool FC prediction | OneFootball

Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman backs the Seasiders to challenge for promotion next season under Steve Bruce

Steve Bruce has wasted little time in addressing key areas of his Blackpool squad so far this window, with five new faces already through the door at Bloomfield Road.

The Seasiders finished ninth in League One last season with 67 points, just missing out on the playoffs and scored 72 goals during the campaign - which suggests Bruce can build upon this with his new signings.

The manager's track record with promotion - achieving the feat four times throughout his career - all of which were to the Premier League, has created genuine optimism at the club with pre-season training already underway.

After two consecutive mid-table finishes in League One since their Championship relegation in 2022/2023, early signs show Bruce is assembling a squad capable of mounting a push back to the second-tier.

Don Goodman believes early signings signal promotion aim for Blackpool FC

Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman, has exclusively told FLW that he backs the Seasiders to challenge for promotion next season under Steve Bruce.

"Yeah it all looks pretty promising if you’re a Blackpool supporter," Goodman told FLW.

"I think the signings of George Honeyman, Niall Ennis and Michael Ihiekwe are three very, very strong signings in the early part of the transfer window, no doubt there will be more to come.

"I think that’s probably a statement of intent from Blackpool who had a ninth-placed finish last season and they’ll be looking to progress," he added.

The trio of signings have brought much-needed experience and quality to Bruce's squad. Midfielder George Honeyman arrives from Millwall on a two-year deal, bringing Championship pedigree and League One promotion-winning experience from his time at Hull City.

Meanwhile, Niall Ennis has returned to the Fylde Coast permanently after an impressive loan spell last season - scoring seven goals in 19 appearances. Michael Ihiekwe completes the three name-dropped by Goodman, with an outstanding record of four promotions from League One during spells with Rotherham United and Sheffield Wednesday.

Steve Bruce factor proves decisive in attracting talent to Blackpool

Goodman highlighted the impact Steve Bruce has already made since his appointment in Septermber 2024, when he replaced Neil Critchley following a poor start.

"I think Steve Bruce highlighted in his time there last season that he can definitely put a team together that will be challenging at the top end of League One," Goodman continued.

"So yes, I'd expect them to be challenging for a top six spot."

Honeyman specifically mentioned working with Bruce during his youth career at Sunderland, describing him as someone he has "always respected." Similarly, Ihiekwe praised Bruce's approach during negotiations, noting how the manager gave him time to make his decision.

Beyond the headline trio, Blackpool have completed the signings of Fraser Horsfall from Stockport County and goalkeeper Franco Ravizzoli from Wycombe Wanderers.

Ravizzoli's arrival follows the departures of Harry Tyrer, Richard O'Donnell and Mackenzie Chapman - the Argentine shot-stopper made 52 appearances for Wycombe.

Goodman's assessment reflects growing confidence that Blackpool can bridge the gap to the promotion places next season - and the experienced signings already made are perhaps an early indication of what's to come.