With several Bolton Wanderers players away on international duty, manager Steven Schumacher is looking to make the most of the break by focusing on those who need crucial game time ahead of the season’s final stretch.
Crucial recovery time for key players
Schumacher has allowed his squad a few days off before regrouping for training at Lostock later this week. With nine League One games remaining, he wants his players to be refreshed both physically and mentally for the promotion push.
Among those expected to benefit from the training schedule are Ricardo Santos, Kion Etete, and Kyle Dempsey, who have all been recovering from injuries. The trio are set to feature in Sunday’s friendly against Everton, which will also serve as part of the process to secure a safety certificate for the Toffees’ new stadium.
“Kyle, Rico, Kion to an extent, they haven’t played for quite a long time so it’s important to get them back out there and into the routine,” Schumacher said.
“It will be a good game against strong opposition, so getting the lads back in for a few days beforehand, preparing properly, I think it’ll really help the ones who are involved.”
International duties and injury concerns
Josh Sheehan, Luke Southwood, Alex Murphy, Sam Inwood, and Sonny Sharples-Ahmed are all away on international duty, meaning Schumacher will have a reduced squad to work with. However, Eoin Toal has returned early after picking up an injury while training with Northern Ireland.
Despite the risks of players suffering injuries while away with their national teams, Schumacher trusts the international coaching staff to manage his players correctly.
“You trust that the people who are in charge of the national teams know what they’re doing. They are not going to be doing anything too different to what we would be doing with the loading of the training.”
While acknowledging the potential for injuries, Schumacher also recognises the importance of representing one’s country and the experience it brings.
“For players to go and represent their country, it’s a really proud moment for them. It isn’t easy being picked, so they should go and enjoy those moments.”
Writer’s view
Bolton’s approach to the international break is a smart one. While some teams struggle with the disruption, Schumacher is using it to fine-tune his squad and reintegrate injured players at a crucial time. With promotion still within reach, ensuring key figures like Santos, Etete, and Dempsey are match-fit could make all the difference in the coming weeks.
