Neil Lennon believes it is now or never for his Bolton Wanderers side if they are to avoid the drop ahead of the crunch clash with MK Dons tomorrow.
Wanderers lie nine points and four places below Saturday’s opponents, hoping to defeat a side who have not won away since the opening day of the season.
And Lennon knows that every week that ticks by without a win is another step closer to the Championship trap door.
“It’s a must-win game,” Lennon said.
“Games are running out and we need to start getting wins on the board, especially from our home games.
“Morale is low around the club but we have to put events off the pitch to the side and carry on regardless.
“After a good win in midweek, tomorrow is another huge match for us – we need to focus on getting a result and progress from there.
“It’s day-to-day here and we’re taking it game-by-game – we’re not giving up.”
It has been another one of those weeks at the club, with staff going unpaid, the issuing of another validation hearing, and desperate attempts to sell off a car park.
Lennon urged his side to give the fans something to cheer, lest anyone forget the magnitude of tomorrow’s match amidst the off-field gloom.
“When the club is sold you want to make sure it is sold to the right people who have the club’s best interests at heart,” he said.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel and hopefully the club will get permission to sell the car park today.
“We’re hoping for a big turnout again from our fantastic fans tomorrow which will in turn help galvanize the players.
“We’re at home so the onus will be on us to take the game to MK Dons.”
While Lennon confirmed that there was no fresh news over player sales, he anticipated that some would have to leave by the end of the January transfer window.
Shola Ameobi should feature in what is likely to be his last game for the club, while Ben Amos will return after suspension, and Gary Madine should be fit enough to retain a starting place.
Image courtesy of BWFC via YouTube, with thanks.
