Bolton Wanderers boss Ian Evatt remains confident in his squad’s commitment and support, even after the heavy 5-0 defeat against Stockport County last weekend.
The loss sparked concerns among fans and raised questions regarding Evatt’s position, with a section of supporters calling for his dismissal during the game.
Players Take Responsibility After Stockport Defeat
Following the game, Bolton’s players requested that the coaching staff exit the dressing room, allowing them space to address their performance. Later, the team issued a statement, taking full accountability for the result—a rare move that Evatt interprets as a show of commitment to his leadership. For Evatt, this display of ownership is a clear indication of the squad’s loyalty and belief in the team’s direction.
“One million per cent,”
Evatt told The Bolton News when asked if he felt he had his players’ support. He added:
“The players, from what I understand, took ownership for Saturday. They don’t do that very often in football and they certainly don’t do it for a manager they don’t want to play for. I think they are upset, they are distraught. We have a very close relationship and a close bond.”
Evatt acknowledged that such an emphatic defeat has heightened emotions, but he believes his role now is to help the team channel that disappointment into progress.
Looking Forward: Challenges and Opportunities
Evatt has urged his team to “keep walking forward” as they prepare to bounce back. Reflecting on Bolton’s broader form since their mid-September defeat to Huddersfield, he highlighted that they’ve secured six wins, one draw, and only two losses in the last ten games, a record that places them among the top-performing teams in League One during this period.
Bolton’s upcoming fixtures after the international break present an opportunity to reclaim momentum, with home matches against Blackpool, Mansfield, and Wigan, alongside away trips to Cambridge, Bristol Rovers, and leaders Wycombe before Christmas.
Despite the criticism, Evatt remains steadfast: “There will be criticism, for the team and for myself, and that is just part of football. We can’t do anything about that now, we just have to take it on the chin.”
Writer’s View
Ian Evatt’s conviction that his players are still fully committed speaks to the strong bond he has cultivated within the squad, but pressure from fans and recent defensive struggles could be worrying signs for Bolton. As they face a tough run of fixtures, the next few games will be crucial in determining whether Evatt remains in the post.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
