KEVIN Nolan believes he can become a better player under Sammy Lee.

The Wanderers' captain, who developed into one of the Premiership's brightest midfield prospects under Sam Allardyce, was stunned by the events of last weekend but delighted when chairman Phil Gartside acted quickly to promote from within.

He is confident he will continue his personal progress under the new manager and is backing Lee to take Wanderers to the next level.

"He's been fantastic as assistant manager, absolutely brilliant," Nolan said.

"I always thought he had that step up in him and he has got that chance now.

"He will bring fresh ideas and will make me a better player.

"We can, perhaps, go one step further with Sammy now."

Nolan applauded Lee's appointment of team-mate, Gary Speed, as a move that will suit all parties.

"It (coaching) is something Speedo's really big into and I know he snapped his hand off when it was offered," he added.

"It's was a smart move by Sammy, having that link between the players and staff. It's a great move and a pat on the back fror Speedo."

Nolan, who is expected to return to the squad for tomorrow's crunch clash at West Ham after missing last week's draw at Chelsea with an ankle injury, echoed the tributes to Allardyce, whose resignation last Sunday afternoon rocked the football world. He believes Big Sam has a place in Bolton folklore and will be judged by history to be one of the all-time greats of the management game.

He added: "We were all disappointed with what went on and we're all gutted that Sam's gone.

"I've had seven fantastic years under Sam Allardyce and can't thank him enough for what he's done for me.

"I just hope we can keep going in the way we have for the last seven years, keep going in the right direction, which is forward.

"We've had great times, getting up into the Premiership and staying there that first and second season then establishing ourselves , and getting to a cup final.

"He has got to be remembered as one of the great managers, but it has gone now. We have to put that behind us.

"I'm looking forward to a a new, fresh approach and we've got to get on with it. Starting at West Ham tomorrow we have to make sure we get six points out of six and I firmly believe we will."