Defender reveals why he left Sheffield Wednesday to step down a division as transfer window opens

The League One club secured the services of the 23-year-old in a somewhat surprising New Year’s Day swoop, with Thorniley signing a two-and-a-half year contract.

The central defender made just two appearances this season – both in the EFL Cup – and despite having decent runs in the team in each of the previous two seasons, Thorniley has been unable to make a sustained push for a regular place.

The former Everton youngster said it was something of a wrench to leave Hillsborough but is looking forward to the new challenge.

“I’m happy to get it over the line and sign for the club,” he told Blackpool’s website. “It’s an exciting time to come to Blackpool and the club seems to be on the up.

“It was tough to leave Sheffield Wednesday, as they’ve been good to me having offered me a deal after being released from my first club, but when I learned of Blackpool’s interest, it was something I was really excited about and wanted to learn more.

“The aim for me is to repay the manager’s faith in me and produce when it matters on the pitch, and hopefully help the Club continue to grow.”

The move kicks off Wednesday’s transfer window activitity for the new year, with Garry Monk revealing earlier this week, that he wants to strengthen his attack but it is likely to be the loan market the Owls boss is shopping in.