Blackpool will not risk George Honeyman or Josh Bowler again this season, with Ian Evatt confirming both will sit out the final weeks after the club’s position at the bottom of League One eased.
The Seasiders’ 1-0 win against Wycombe Wanderers has effectively given them enough breathing room to avoid any late-season gambles, with attention now turning to getting players through to the summer.
Evatt makes definitive call on injured pair
There had been some expectation that both Honeyman and Bowler could return before the end of the campaign, particularly after encouraging updates on their respective recoveries. That door is now firmly closed.
Honeyman, who joined from Millwall last summer, was forced off against Peterborough United with a hamstring issue. While scans suggested the injury was not as severe as initially feared, Blackpool have opted against bringing him back into the fold.
Bowler’s situation has followed a similar path. The former Luton Town winger has been making progress since his withdrawal against Burton Albion, but despite that improvement, he too will not feature again this term.
Evatt made it clear that the decision is not just about the two players in isolation, but the wider strain the squad has been under.
“It’s been tough for so many of them,” said Evatt.
“We’ve had so much adversity this season with injuries. Albie is arguably one of our best players and I’ve hardly had him available.
“Dale is the same, we’re having to be cautious with him.”
Injuries define the bigger picture
The update on Honeyman and Bowler is the latest example of a season that has been shaped by availability issues. Blackpool have rarely had a settled group, with key players missing extended periods or being managed carefully to avoid further setbacks.
Evatt pointed to others who have had to push through physical problems, highlighting the demands placed on the squad across the campaign.
“Michael Ihiekwe has put himself forward time and time again at 50 percent fit.
“He has so much respect for that. Having him back next season, and others, gives me a lot of confidence moving forward.”
That context explains why there is no temptation to rush anyone back now. With a six-point gap to the relegation zone and only two games remaining, Blackpool are no longer in a position where they need to take risks. The immediate pressure has eased after the Wycombe result, and that has allowed Evatt to make a clean decision on his injured players.
It brings an end, of sorts, to a campaign that has been repeatedly disrupted by fitness problems. Blackpool have had to patch things together at times, with players coming in and out and others playing through issues.
Now, with safety almost in the bag, the approach is simple. Get through the remaining fixtures, avoid any further setbacks, and make sure those currently sidelined are ready to go again when pre-season comes around.