New Bolton Wanderers signing Charlie Warren is keen to hit the ground running after taking the giant leap to the EFL from England’s eighth tier.
The 21-year-old had emerged as one the hidden gems in the non-league pyramid, scoring 34 goals for Felixstowe & Walton United last season. His name started doing the rounds earlier this year when it was claimed that Coventry City, Lincoln City and Wycombe Wanderers were all keeping tabs on his development.
As the season began to reach its conclusion, there were reports that a number of EFL clubs were also watching with a keen eye. The likes of Stoke City were believed to have dispatched scouts, but it was Bolton who took the first step by including the winger in a trial match in February.
Warren ‘Excited’ To Get Going
The Trotters confirmed they had won the race for his signature last week when they announced the signing on an initial two-year deal with the option to extend by 12 months. Speaking at the time, Warren admitted that he felt his progression over the last 12 months could be enough to land a professional deal after being released by Ipswich Town at the age of 14:
“I did feel like last season I was progressing the most and I did feel like this could be the one where I get that pro contract. It’s a big achievement for me and I’m proud of it.
“Bolton is a massive club and it’s a massive step up for me but I feel like I’m ready for the challenge and I’m just excited to go and start.”
Now the dust has settled, the youngster is keen to get started. Speaking to BBC Radio Suffolk, he said:
“There was speculation for a bit – I think they watched a game at Boreham Wood and then wanted me to go down for a trial which I thought I did well in and they obviously must have thought that as well.
“I scored and we ended up winning the game so I think that played a big part in more interest (from them). It’s a big step up for me, but it will help me playing around that level of player and I’m excited to see how I improve.”
Writer’s View
Bolton will be hoping that they have unearthed a gem that could be the difference for them next season. They have their sights firmly set on promotion to the Championship and acquiring Warren ahead of a host of second tier clubs will give them a boost. His record speaks for itself and if he can translate that to the EFL, he could be a catalyst for the Greater Manchester-based side. Of course, that’s a big if, but there’s clearly a player there to have attracted the kind of interest he did.
