Megson named as new Bolton boss
Bolton Wanderers chairman Phil Gartside insists new manager Gary
Megson will have the full support of the dressing room.
Megson has signed a two-and-a-half year deal after controversially
leaving Leicester City just six weeks into the role.
Sammy Lee's successor will watch the UEFA Cup match against Braga
on Thursday then take charge of the team for the first time on
Sunday when they face Aston Villa.
While many Bolton supporters are questioning the appointment on
websites, Gartside believes Megson can lift the players - and the
club off the foot of the table.
He said: 'We have made decisive decisions over the past few weeks
and this is one of them.
'It is not about me, Gary Megson or any other individual. It is all
about Bolton surviving in the Premier League.
'We have to be fully focused on the task ahead to make sure we
achieve immediate success.
'I have spoken to the staff and the players and we are all
committed to getting behind Gary and turning our fortunes
around.'
Gartside has been impressed by Megson's work ethic during his time
as a manager.
He will be looking to turn around a team that has picked up only
five points from 10 games.
Archie Knox was in charge of first team affairs in the defeat by
Arsenal last weekend.
The Scottish coach briefly took control following the departure of
former Football Association and Liverpool coach Lee by mutual
consent.
Lee stumbled when he followed in the footsteps of Sam Allardyce -
who later joined Newcastle - after taking over at the end of last
season.
Under Allardyce, Bolton secured European football for the first
time, became an established Premier League club and reached the
final of the League Cup.
He was always going to be a hard act to follow and now Megson has
picked up the baton. He will be unveiled to the media on
Friday.
Gartside said: 'We feel Gary is the right man to take Bolton
forward.
'We have been able to interview a number of quality candidates and
after due consideration decided to offer him the post.
'I have paid particular attention to his career and he has
demonstrated to me he is prepared to roll his sleeves up.
'He has the right temperament for a battle, which this season is
undoubtedly going to be.'
