F A n F I L E

TOM JENKINS

The big talking point among the

fans is the appointment of Ian Evatt [ above] as manager, which seems like quite a coup despite him having managed only Barrow. This season will be different to last because we aren’t shackled by past Ken Anderson- era sins. I won’t be happy unless we secure promotion. It’s essential.

Our most underrated player is Ali Crawford – on his day, he pulls the strings in midfield, and was part of the Doncaster team that reached the League One play- offs in 2019.

Look out for 20- year- old Romanian midfielder Dennis Politic [ below]. He’s got the potential to be a star, with good technique and confidence. The opposition player I secretly admire is Southend striker Stephen Humphrys – hugely talented and from the local area... cough, hint.

The pantomime villain will be anyone from Tranmere, but in particular, striker Morgan Ferrier. The one change I’d make would be to give our home stadium a proper makeover. It’s a brilliant facility, but starting to look a bit tired.

Save the date for games against Tranmere and Barrow: the former due to a longstanding dislike, and the latter for obvious reasons. The best Bolton social media

account is @ Lionofviennaste – not just a bloke called ‘ Ste’... Did you know that the famous L. S. Lowry painting called Going to the Match depicts our old ground, Burnden Park. Have some of that, Manchester United!

Our key player will be new striker Eoin Doyle, because goals win you games and promotion. The fans’ opinion of the gaffer is really positive. Evatt is the most important appointment since Big Sam left – we’ve finally got it right. He loves attacking football and we haven’t seen that for a while. If he left, he should be replaced by [ former U23s coach] David Lee. He’d be a ready- made replacement if, for some reason, Evatt didn’t work out.

We’ll finish 1st, 2nd or 3rd – I don’t care which. Promotion, please.