Blackpool defender Tony McMahon is looking forward to expand the squad by this week with their new manager Jose Riga. Following a clear out at the club in May, the Seasiders are left with only eight players but are still preparing extensively for the majority of the close-season.

This week, the squad is expected to grow in number as there were five new arrivals to sign. The Seasiders are now to be managed by Jose Riga who aided Charlton Athletic to retain their Championship status, and finishing two places above Blackpool.

The Blackpool fans protested on Saturday ahead of their friendly match with Burnley as they watch their team insert only 12 players with no recognized goalkeeper; which led them to their loss 1-0. The club, however, is positive in strengthening themselves further for the start of the new campaign, which sees Blackpool play off against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground next Saturday.

"Obviously it hasn't been ideal, but as footballers, we can only do our job and that is to play football," McMahon said addressing to the concern that their squad still has no goalkeeper as they prepare for their upcoming match.

He said that the manager asked them to report back in July and they have done what they were asked of and they have also worked hard every day. The remaining athletes in the squad, along with their manager are hopeful that they will see a few more new faces.

McMahon added "We've got a small squad, to say the least, but we're all together and once you keep adding to it one thing we will be is together, so then we can just move on."

They brought five new players in last week and they are optimistic that they can bring a few more in before the start of the close-season.

"We can surprise a lot of people this year. Obviously the way the manager wants to play, and everyone knows he has done a really good job at Charlton, so if he can get his style across and get his players in then hopefully we can do well."