Bolton boss Neil Lennon was encouraged by his team’s defensive display following the win against Wolves – and believes his new backline will only get better.
Saturday’s 2-1 win at the Macron was Wanderers’ first of the season, and despite the slender margin of victory, the three points was built on a strong defensive display.
Frenchman Prince-Desire Gouano played alongside Spanish defender Derik Osede for the first time, and Lennon stated that his continental pairing have the makings of an imposing duo.
“It’s a new partnership, there’s obviously going to be a few communication problems at times but they acquitted themselves very well,” he said.
“They need to get up to speed with the game, particularly Derik, as it’s his first game since the end of pre-season.
“You can see what they bring to the team; they’ve got great pace, and they want to defend, which is always a good sign.”
Despite the encouraging performance, the Wanderers’ boss was keen to reiterate that competition ensures that those in possession of the jerseys will have to work hard to retain their places in the line-up.
“It’s obviously something we looked at coming into the season,” he said.
“We’ve got (Jose Manuel) Casado, (Francesco) Pisano, who’s almost up to speed, and the two full backs have acquitted themselves really well over the piece.
“We’ve got four centre-halves now as well.
“Dorian Dervite’s going to be out for a week or two with ligament damage – we hope it’s not going to be too serious, and David Wheater’s not far away.”
Looking ahead to Tuesday’s game against Sheffield Wednesday, the Northern Irishman was keen to emphasise the quality of their opponents, despite the Yorkshire club having not picked up a win since the first day of the season.
“It’ll be a tough game,” he said.
“Sheffield Wednesday are a strong team, they’ve spent a lot of money.
“But that’ll give everyone a lift – the fans, the staff, the board, the players – and it’s good to get off the mark now with a win.”
Wanderers are also hoping to wrap up a deal that will see former Arsenal and West Ham defender Steve Walford join the club as Neil Lennon’s assistant.
Lennon has moved quickly to appoint Walford following the departure of Johan Mjallby for family reasons.
Walford, having spent over twenty years as Martin O’Neill’s long-term number two, previously worked with Lennon at Leicester City and Celtic.
Image courtesy of Bolton Wanderers, via Youtube, with thanks.
