Blackpool U-turn as former Wanderers youngster extends stay

Former Wanderers youngster Mackenzie Chapman has signed a new contract to remain at Blackpool.

The goalkeeper was named as one of several players leaving Bloomfield Road in the Seasiders’ retained list last month.

However, the Lancashire club have now confirmed that Chapman has put pen to paper over a new 12-month deal.

He got minutes under his belt for Blackpool’s development squad last season, acting as understudy to Dan Grimshaw and Richard O’Donnell.

The 21-year-old began his youth career at Accrington Stanley before heading to North West neighbours Burnley.

Chapman also spent time in Manchester United’s youth ranks before heading to Oldham Athletic, making his senior debut against Morecambe in October 2020.

The shot stopper signed for Oxford the following summer and furthered his experience with a loan spell in the non-league pyramid.

He headed to Wanderers in October 2022, joining the club’s B Team ranks alongside the likes of Luke Hutchinson and Ellis Litherland.

Chapman was released by the Whites at the end of the 2022/23 campaign and headed to Blackpool following a successful trial period.

Neil Critchley’s side finished eighth in League One last term, narrowly missing out on a play-off spot following defeat against Reading on the final day.

The Seasiders have also announced that Tyler Hill - the son of ex-Bristol City, Sheffield United and Preston North End defender Matt - has signed his first professional deal.

His brother, James, plays for Bournemouth and had a loan spell in the Championship with Blackburn Rovers last term.

Hill told the club website: “It feels great to finally have signed professional terms. There have been a lot of ups and downs throughout this season and my time in the Academy, but I have always worked hard and feel like this is the reward for that at the early stages of my career.”