Two Is The Magic Number

Rumours had been banded around about these two in recent days and today the pair signed on at Bloomfield Road.

Taylor-Fletcher, who played against his new team-mates no less than 3 times last season for the Terriers, has signed a 2 year deal with the Seasiders. The versatile player – he can operate either on the right wing or as a striker – was full of praise for last season’s crop of players after signing, citing his main reasons for signing were the team spirit and obviously, the lure of Championship football.

‘When we played them for Huddersfield last year I was very impressed with not just the performances on the pitch but obviously the attitude that the lads shown and the team spirit, so to come here, especially when they’ve gone up to the Championship is a great opportunity.’

He went on to say;

‘It’s every footballers’ dream to play as high as possible and I can’t thank Blackpool enough for giving me the opportunity to get here and to play in the Championship. Some of the lads are great footballers so I think we could surprise a few people.’

Lets not forget that his link with former ‘Pool loanee Chris Brandon and now permanent signing, Paul Rachubka, played a part in him signing also.

‘I spoke to Rabs (Paul Rachubka) and obviously Chris Brandon was here and they could only say good things about the club, so that did influence my decision about the club as well.’

A good signing for Grayson who has stated his midfield and forward line need strengthening in the past, with ‘GTF’ on board, both positions are catered for which is always a positive. I firmly believe that Taylor-Fletcher will become a good signing for ‘Pool, particularly as he is held in high regard by fans at his now former club, Huddersfield Town.

Stephen Crainey is the second of the duo to sign today, joining on a free transfer after being released from Leeds at the end of last season, following their relegation to League One.

The left back brings with him a wealth of experience after playing for big clubs throughout his career.

He started off at Celtic as a trainee before he made the switch to the South coast of England, signing for Southampton in 2004.

He then spent 3 months on loan with Leeds United in August 2004 prior to making the move permanent with a £200,000 transfer to the Yorkshire club.

He spent the next 3 years with the club before being released at the end of last season’s diabolical season at Elland Road.

Stephen has signed a 1 year contract with the option for a further year.



With the signings of Paul Rachubka, John Hills, Michael Flynn, Stephen Crainey and Gary Taylor-Fletcher, ‘Pool boss Simon Grayson is building a strong side with strength-in-depth in mind for the coming season in an attempt to consolidate his team’s place within the Championship to keep Mr. Belokon’s dream of ‘Premiership within 5 years’ on track.