Impressive youngsters out to spoil the party
AFC BOURNEMOUTH v BOLTON WNDRS
WITH over 100 Bolton appearances to his name, Tim Ream is something of an old hand but it’s his teammates at the other end of the experience spectrum that have impressed him in recent weeks.
The likes of 19-yearold midfielder Tom Walker and 21-year-old defender Oscar Threlkeld have galvanised the Trotters to just one loss in their last six games.
That includes a 2-2 draw with high-flying Brentford last weekend and, as they prepare to face promotion chasers Bournemouth tomorrow, Ream insists the future is bright.
“It is fun to watch them because it has been a long time coming for them,” said the USA international centre-back.
“You look at the way Tom plays the game and it’s an interesting dynamic because these kids aren’t scared of making mistakes.
“Tom isn’t worried but he is starting to figure out when he can take risks and chances and when he needs to help out and play simple.
“And Oscar was the best player in the backline at Brentford, just winning his individual battles and being in the right positions all the time.”
Bolton boss Neil Lennon has a selection headache against the Cherries with Josh Vela, Matt Mills and Paddy McCarthy all ruled out but Ream is keen to end the season on a high.
“We’re mathematically safe of relegation now so there’s even more freedom going into the final two games,” added the 27-year-old.
“We want to win them both. I don’t think we even know how to play for a draw.”