Bolton Wanderers manager Steven Schumacher has dismissed suggestions that striker Sam Dalby is frustrated with his lack of game time since joining from Wrexham in the summer.
Dalby, 25, moved to the Toughsheet Community Stadium on a free transfer after rejecting a contract extension at Wrexham. The forward spent last season on loan at Dundee United, scoring 15 goals in 35 league matches, but is yet to start a League One fixture for Bolton this term.
He has made 8 league appearances from the bench, as Mason Burstow’s prolific form has kept him out of the starting 11.
Schumacher praises Dalby’s attitude
Speaking to The Bolton News, Schumacher said Dalby’s professionalism in training remains exemplary despite his limited minutes so far this season.
“I don’t sense from Sam that he is frustrated. He is another one of those brilliant characters on the training pitch who gets his head down and works properly every single day. He isn’t one who moans about anything,” he said.
“At the moment he can’t moan, when he looks at Mason who has been playing his position and scored 7 goals in 11 games. Sometimes as a striker you just have to be patient, and Sam knows that he will get his chance to start games. I know that when he gets that opportunity he will be effective because he’s a good player and we know what he can do.”
Dalby’s lack of minutes comes amid a strong start to the campaign for Bolton, who are among the early promotion contenders under Schumacher. Burstow’s 7 goals in 11 matches have established him as League One’s leading scorer, giving Bolton little reason to alter their attacking setup.
Dalby’s move from Wrexham
Dalby left Wrexham at the end of last season after turning down the chance to extend his deal at the Racecourse Ground. Manager Phil Parkinson spoke positively about the striker upon his departure, acknowledging his impressive spell in Scotland and expressing confidence that he would attract interest elsewhere.
“I had a good chat with Sam and I am pleased for him,” Parkinson told Wrexham’s official channels.
“We spoke to him in January about extending his contract and we didn’t want to call him back. With his performances for Dundee United, he put himself in a strong position to earn a contract somewhere.”
Now at Bolton on a 4-year contract, Dalby will hope to force his way into contention as the season progresses. With his proven record in front of goal in Scotland and his age profile, he remains seen as a player with potential to grow into a long-term option for Schumacher’s side.
Writer’s View
Dalby’s patience is being tested, but Schumacher’s comments suggest there is trust in his character and ability. Competition with a free-scoring forward like Burstow is difficult for any striker, yet the manager’s tone indicates Dalby’s opportunity will come.
After a strong year at Dundee United, his challenge now is to adapt to a higher tempo and sustain impact when his chance arises. For Bolton, depth up front could prove vital in a demanding promotion race.
