Blackpool's new chairman, Simon Sadler, has revealed that talks are underway with manager Terry McPhillips around a new contract, as reported by the Blackpool Gazette.

McPhillips saw the Tangerines finish in the top half last season, despite the discontent rumbling away behind the scenes. They battled adversity off the field, but were never in danger of falling into the relegation battle on it.

Those dark clouds that have dogged the club for years have now shifted, with despised owner Owen Oyston deposed. That saw fans come back from a self-imposed Bloomfield Road exile, as well as a new owner take over.

Sadler is a lifelong Blackpool fan and under his guidance, they're hoping to mount another assault on the top six this season. McPhillips has been on a one-year rolling contract, but talks have now begun on a more stable, long-term deal for the former Blackburn assistant.

“There are negotiations around a new contract, yes,” he said.

“I think Terry has done a very good job in the short term, He was the chief scout while we got up from League Two to League One. He very quickly went from assistant to manager and no-one would have backed him to finish in 10th position."

McPhillips took over from Gary Bowyer at the beginning of last season as the current Bradford boss left after just a couple of matches.

The Verdict

McPhillips proved last season that's he a wily manager, tactically aware and able to lift players whatever the situation around the club. He did a similar job to Lee Bowyer, not quite as successful but still impressive. Deflecting problems off the field away from players is not easy at all.

In a tight division where any one of 12 teams could have been relegated at the beginning of April, Blackpool did well to stay clear of the panic.

Without the outside pressure, there must be a belief that McPhillips can kick on an lift them even higher. It won't be easy, League One is filled with bigger budgets and better facilities, but that attitude from last season is enough to suggest they'll be battling for the top ten once again.

Top six might just be out of their reach though.