Blackpool sign Michael Ihiekwe on three-year deal from Sheffield Wednesday
Centre-back Michael Ihiekwe will join Blackpool on 1 July when his Sheffield Wednesday contract expires.
Ihiekwe is a player who will bring with him invaluable experience to the Seasiders’ defence. Being 32 years old, he has been around the English football leagues for a long time.
He spent time in both Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ academies before playing professional senior football for Cheltenham Town, Tranmere Rovers, Rotherham, and most recently, Sheffield Wednesday.
Consistency has been key for Ihiekwe, as he made over 100 appearances for Tranmere during his tenure at the Merseyside club. This season will mark the Liverpool native’s eleventh season at this level.
He has been promoted from League One on four different occasions, the most recent of which came with his last club in 2023. The season before that, he was named Sheffield Wednesday’s Player of the Season.
Upon his arrival at Blackpool, he spoke to their media team, saying, “A lot of things attracted me to the club.
“As soon as I spoke to the gaffer, I was immediately sold on the club and the project here. Despite other interest, the club has always been my number one.”
Head Coach Steve Bruce also weighed in on his side’s new centre-half.
“We are really pleased to have brought Michael in so early in the window, despite interest from elsewhere.
“His CV speaks for itself with four promotions from this division already, and we are hopeful this experience he has will help us reach our goals this season.”
Dean Casey scored twice as St Mochta’s were crowned LSL Senior Sunday champions on Wednesday night.
Brian McCarthy’s side ran out 2-0 winners over last year’s winners Lucan United to lift their second league title in three years.
And it was a victory they needed as they trailed Kilbarrack United by three points heading into their final league fixture of the season.
But a superior goal difference gave them a shot at winning the title, and they took their chance.
Casey, formerly of Cabinteely, netted in the 55th and 88th minute to get the Porterstown Road outfit over the line – sparking wild celebrations.
