Colin Doyle was not the reason Blackpool were relegated from England’s League One.
The 30-year-old Irish goalkeeper played 36 times for ‘Pool and was nominated for player of the season – an accolade claimed by defender Tom Aldred.
Despite Doyle and Aldred’s best efforts, Blackpool now find themselves facing into League Two football. Remarkably, this is five short years since they were relegated from the Premier League.
Blackpool scored more goals (55) when relegated from the Premier League in 2010/11 than Manchester United did this season (49).
Incredible.— Will Watt (@WillWatt) May 18, 2016
Reporting for the Blackpool Gazette, William Watt reveals two clauses in Doyle’s contract may see him leaving the club in the coming weeks.
If he remains at Blackpool, Doyle will have to accept a cut in salary, triggered by relegation. The other clause sees Doyle available for a £1 transfer if any suitable clubs can find the money down the couch.
Doyle was with Birmingham City from the age of 18 and made 31 senior appearances – and undertaking six loan spells – before he moved on last summer. His run of games for Blackpool proved he could handle the pressure and work-load of being No.1.
He was capped multiple times at underage level for Ireland and made his senior debut in a 2007 friendly against Ecuador.
He is expected to move to a League One side over the summer. His departure could be fast on the heels of ‘Pool boss Neil MacDonald, whom the club sacked last night.
