[Bispham Seasider]

Matthew Gilks



Signed from Norwich City as part of the deal which saw Wes Hoolahan move to Norwich.

Born on 4 June 1982 in Rochdale, England current age 26. He is a goalkeeper.

Gilks was a youth player with League Two Rochdale where he signed his first professional contract in March 2000. He became a regular starter for Rochdale and went on to make 176 league appearances for the club. In summer 2007 he signed a two year contract with Norwich City on a free transfer. He became a regular in the clubs reserve team but was unable to oust first choice keeper David Marshall, who is widely considered to be one of the best keepers in the Championsip.

Last season Blackpool had a number of keepers on loan, none of whom could get the keepers shirt from Paul Rachubka. However, Gilks is expected to provide real competition for Rabs and could well end up being first choice keeper.