Samuel back in side on merit

Bolton full-back Jlloyd Samuel insists he is back in the side on merit after losing his place at the start of the campaign.Samuel was an ever-present in the Barclays Premier League last season when the club secured their status under manager Gary Megson after a poor start.But he found himself on the bench in the opening games against Sunderland and Hull - which both ended in defeats - with new arrival Paul Robinson getting the nod.Samuel was then recalled and he looks set to retain his place against Stoke after being part of the team that recorded a victory at Portsmouth last weekend.He said: "Losing my place was one of those things. It was the manager's decision and you've got to go along with it. I just kept my head down - I had a good pre-season - and waited for my chance again. Hopefully I have taken it as I want to play regularly again."I have been pleased with my performances and just want to keep pushing on. I am 28 now and feel I still have a lot to offer."

Source: Eurosport