Bolton Wanderers Football Club News

• Nickname:Wanderers
• Founded:1874
• Manager:Owen Coyle

• Ground:Reebok Stadium
• Capacity:28,000

Nolan earns Megson defence

04 Jan 2008 - 08:29:14

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Bolton Wanderers manager Gary Megson insists Kevin Nolan remains the first name on his team-sheet despite the captain's recent dip in form.

Megson was angry that his skipper was booed by sections of the Reebok Stadium crowd after being substituted during Wednesday's 1-0 victory over Derby County.

The Trotters boss believes Nolan remains one of the most committed players at the club after revealing he played through the pain barrier against the Rams.

"The lad was desperate to play with eleven stitches in his head and an injection in his ribs just to get out there," Megson told the club's official website.

"There's not a person in this area that cares as much about Bolton Wanderers as Kevin Nolan does.

"He's just scored three goals in seven games and is captain of the team.

"I can tell you that he's always the first name on the team-sheet.

"He's a terrific lad and I find it very strange that one person could view him as anything but a good player, and someone who has got the sole concern of the club.

"When Stelios scored, the person swinging round my neck and celebrating was Kevin Nolan - he was delighted."