With an automatic promotion space still technically possible, Bolton Wanderers will be hoping that Jon Dadi Bodvarsson’s recent calf injury won’t damage their final day hopes of a late escape from League One.
The Icelandic striker will not only be ruled out for the next few weeks, but he is also the subject of a doubtful contract extension, which could see the 32-year-old leave the Lancashire side on a free. Bodvarsson has been a fantastic servant to the club, scoring 25 goals in 94 appearances since signing from Millwall in January 2022.
If any chance of an automatic promotion spot is to be grasped, then the Wanderers star’s two goals against Reading back at the start of April could prove to be pivotal in a race that could come down to a higher goal difference between the Greater Manchester side and Derby County.
In an interview with The Bolton News, Trotters’ boss Ian Evatt revealed that the club have yet to make any decision on the striker’s future and are focusing on the remainder of the League One campaign first and foremost.
“There have been no discussions with any players about what is happening, moving forward, I want them all focused on what is ahead. The time for that talk is for when the season finishes, not for now.
It is unfortunate for Jon that every time we seem to get him in really good form and with a run of games he has picked up an injury.
He is a brilliant character and a brilliant guy, he has been a huge help to us. He is such an excellent person to have around, it is really unfortunate that we have him injured at such a crucial period of the season.”
Evatt also acknowledged that Bodvarsson is a fan favourite at the club and, in particular, has enjoyed instigating the ‘Thunder Clap’ with the fans – which pleased the Iceland international massively when he joined the club.
“I’m a football fan, and you always want that cult hero to relate to and inspire you, and I think over my tenure here we have had a few of those players.
That is what football is all about and it has been fantastic to see that Jon has that with the supporters.”
Writer’s View
Clearly the 32-year-old’s misfortune with injury problems, coming at the worst of times, has been an understandable reason as to why Wanderers would be looking to move him on. However, this feels like a massive blow if contract talks aren’t at least considered, with bonds between players and fans feeling more crucial than ever at the moment.
A real cult hero, as described by Evatt, could be let go on a free this summer. Another unfortunate injury after a good spell of form could prove to be his last run-out for the Lancashire side.
