Premier League duo Wolves and Leicester City are watching Josh Bowler and Blackpool manager Neil Critchley is not surprised to see the former Everton starlet attract attention, speaking to the Gazette.
Not so long ago, the former Liverpool U23 coach was asking Bowler to improve his end product.
And while Critchley is refusing to take any credit for the winger’s new-found ruthless streak in front of goal, it’s safe to assume his advice did not go unnoticed.
Bowler has now scored seven goals during his debut season at Blackpool. And five of those have come in the last seven Championship games.
There was that magnetic, mesmerising Messi-esque dribble and finish against Bristol City. Those well-taken strikes against promotion-chasers Bournemouth and QPR.
Bowler arguably saved his best for Paul Ince’s return to Bloomfield Road, however, fizzing a first-time volley into the corner as Reading were washed away by a Blackpool wave on the seaside.
Is Josh Bowler heading back to the Premier League?
“Yes, probably (there will be interest),” Critchley, who describes said after Bowler was linked with Wolves, Leicester and Norwich, via TEAMtalk.
“Wingers who score goals and get assists and do the things Josh can do will attract attention. I don’t see any other wingers in the Championship doing what Josh can do, so he’s a prized asset for us.
“If there are people watching him, then great because he’s doing something right.”
The former Everton winger, who was released by The Toffees at the end of last season, could become a free-agent once again this summer.
Blackpool do have an extension clause in Bowler’s contract however, one they are almost certain to trigger with the 22-year-old potentially set to make the North West club a handsome profit.
“He’s in a rich vein of form,” Critchley adds. “Wingers who score and assist are worth their weight in gold. He’s full of confidence and I believe he’s at an age where he will still get better.
“He will become calmer in his decision-making as he gets older and he will settle down in front of goal.”
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