Bolton Wanderers midfielder Liam Trotter has insisted that his teammates still believe they can survive relegation ahead of tomorrow’s trip to face Nottingham Forest.
Tuesday’s hard-luck defeat at Sheffield Wednesday was not as catastrophic as it could have been, with relegation rivals MK Dons, Charlton and Bristol City all losing, leaving the gap to safety at six points.
And Trotter, who spent three months on loan with Saturday’s opponents, called on his players to make the most of their latest reprieve.
“We’ve been very below par all season in terms of results and we’re still not out of it in terms of being adrift,” said Trotter.
“Now we know if we can raise our performances and play to our full potential then we’ve got every chance to get out of this position.
“It’s a difficult situation, it’s a difficult time for the club.
“I wouldn’t say the lads are upbeat and laughing and happy, of course not, we’re bottom of the league, but they’re still very determined.
“Everyone wants to work hard, everyone wants to do well, and everyone believes that if we can put a run together we can still get out of it.”
Trotter’s performance on Tuesday night was his first start since returning from the City Ground, where he made nine appearances and scored a single goal.
The midfielder was held in high regard during his short time in the East Midlands, and spoke of his relish at coming up against his former teammates – as well as former Whites boss Dougie Freedman.
“I was only there for three months but I’ve obviously got a good relationship with the manager and Lennie (Lawrence, the assistant manager), and I made some friends.
“I’ll be looking forward to going back, and I believe we can go there and get a good result.
“But this is Bolton Wanderers, this is where I’m contracted to and this is the club I want to play for – I’m delighted the manager gave me a chance, and hopefully I’ll be in the team in the future.
“We’re in a fight, we’re in a battle, but this is football – we’re in a difficult period right now but we need to come out of it.”
Image courtesy of BWFC via YouTube, with thanks.
