The Truth Behind Bolton’s Defence This Season
It is no secret that Bolton haven’t been at their brilliant best so far this season, after nine games they sit 14th and some fans appear uncertain that Evatt is the man to take the Wanderers into the Championship. However even in their victories this season, one issue has remained prevalent: Bolton are conceding far too many goals. The season has barely started and Ian Evatt’s side have conceded two or more goals in all competitions, eight times.
Ricardo Santos: The Problem or The Solution
The Portuguese defender’s start to the season has not been a fair representation of his time at the Wanderers and the criticism he has received has been non-stop. However, he is not the only reason Bolton have been poor this season, but is he the problem or the solution?
The Importance of Jay Matete
Matete recently joined the Wanderers on a season-long loan from Sunderland to bolster the defensive midfield options. After the departure of Aaron Morley, on loan to Wycombe, Jay Matete is the most natural option to fill in for Josh Sheehan or George Thomason. Kyle Dempsey, Klaidi Lolos, and Scott Arfield are others who could play in defensive midfield but they all play their best football in the final third.
Coleman vs Southwood: The Battle of the Backups
Luke Southwood has been signed this season to replace Joel Coleman as the backup to Nathan Baxter. A new goalkeeper was seen as a priority for the Wanderers, so Southwood would have been heavily scouted and thought about.