Blackpool goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell has described his new deal at Bloomfield Road as a “no-brainer” after extending his stay with the League One club.
The Northern Ireland international first joined Blackpool on loan from Birmingham City last summer, before turning the move into a permanent short-term agreement in January after leaving St Andrew’s by mutual consent.
He has now committed to Ian Evatt’s side for another year, having signed a one-year extension last month. The 29-year-old made 42 League One appearances for the Seasiders last season, keeping 11 clean sheets as Blackpool finished 13th.
Peacock-Farrell, who has also represented Leeds United, Burnley, Sheffield Wednesday and AGF, said the decision to stay was made easier by the club’s stance and his relationship with Evatt.
“It was a conversation that happened at the back end of the season, and it was a pretty straightforward one. It ramped up, so I pretty much knew by the last game where I was going to be playing my football.”
“The gaffer said his part and the club were very keen to do it, so it was pretty much a no-brainer for me. I really enjoyed it last year, and wanted a bit of continuity. Being settled in a team is perfect to go and build on last year.”
Peacock-Farrell Explains Blackpool Decision
The goalkeeper said his permanent move in January was partly completed quickly because it freed up a loan space for Blackpool, but he made clear that Evatt had been pushing for him to stay from an early stage.
“The gaffer was pushing it from an early time, and wanted it done. That confidence and belief from a manager is nice for any player to have. I love playing for him and the system works well for me, so it was really simple.
“I texted him ‘where do I need to live,’ and he told me, which was when the contract was pretty much good to go. It all went according to plan.
“Sometimes on loan, you get to grips with the club and the fans, and you know what they want. I understand clearly what they want to see, so to have that connection is great, it helps you as a player.”
Keeping a goalkeeper with Championship, League One and international experience gives Evatt continuity in an important area of the pitch. The bigger challenge now is turning the stronger spells from last season into something more consistent.
Peacock-Farrell has spoken about feeling settled, knowing the squad and understanding the club, and Blackpool will hope that helps form the basis for a better campaign in 2026/27.
