SAM Allardyce is prepared to miss Wanderers' Premiership game at Charlton, if it means securing one of the three players he is desperate to sign before the transfer deadline.

The Bolton boss is not playing down the importance of the match at The Valley but says strengthening his depleted squad is now a greater priority.

He was not with the squad when they left for London, electing to stay behind to continue his frantic trawl of the markets at home and abroad before the transfer window closes this weekend.

"I'll stay here as long as I can," he said. "I need three more players for Monday because the squad is in a desperate state."

Allardyce, who signed striker Javi Moreno on loan from Atletico Madrid when the transfer window first opened,has finalised the free transfer of Steve Howey from Leicester City.

He believes his current squad, provided it remains intact, is good enough to stay clear of the Premiership danger zone but fears he will be in dire straits if he picks up any more injuries or suspensions.

"The players have been brilliant this season, but my fear is that we just don't have enough of them," he added.

"I have about 14 players I'm looking at but time is running out. I'd have no hesitation in missing the game tomorrow if it meant clinching a deal."