Blackpool will play their football in League One once again next season after a nerve racking play-off final victory over Exeter City, and manager Gary Bowyer will have a tough summer ahead planning for life at the higher level.

The Tangerines squad must improve this summer, and with funds expected to be limited by the owners, Bowyer will have to wheel and deal if he is to put together a side capable of competing in the division.

Free agency could be key to building a strong squad, and the former Blackburn boss could turn to former player Neal Eardley to bolster his side ahead of the new campaign.

The 28-year-old former Welsh international enjoyed a successful spell with the club from 2009-2013, which included Blackpool’s exciting single season of Premier League football.

Eardley could return to the club on a free this summer now that they are back in League One, and if Bowyer can convince the full back of his aspirations for the club, then the former Birmingham City man could prove the best piece of business Bowyer does all summer.

Eardley knows the club well after his four year stint in the north west, and would surely relish the chance to help his old club back to the second tier of English football, following what is set to be a three year absence.