Halstead and Eastham Sign Professional Deals

Earlier this week, Blackpool announced what are technically the first two signings of Ian Holloway's reign with youth team players Mark Halstead and Ash Eastham signing professional contracts with the club.

Gary Parkinson, Blackpool's Head of Youth, speaking to the official website, said:

'I am delighted that both players have signed professional contracts with the club. The majority of supporters will know all about Mark as he has appeared on the bench for the first-team on a number of occasions. His performances for both the reserves and youth team have attracted a lot of interest from Premier League clubs, and for him to sign for the club is a real boost.

'Ash has developed into an excellent defender during the last 12 months and I am confident that if he shows the same effort and desire that he has done during his time with us, he will make a good living out of the game. He's a big, strong lad who never shirks a challenge and I am sure he is looking forward to continuing his development alongside some of the senior pros.'

Both players have signed one year deals with a year's option and will link up with the first team for pre-season training in July.

Let's hope unlike so many youngsters at Blackpool that these two make the grade!

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