WIN, lose or draw against Bristol City this afternoon, Wanderers fans need some feedback from their football club.

A feeling of alienation has started to spread among supporters, and it is little wonder frustrations have built to such levels that talk is once again of protests and banners at the Macron Stadium.

Since it became apparent that Eddie Davies had put the club up for sale, effectively cutting off funding from source, rumour and conspiracy as to the reason has been rampant.

We all recognise there are times when it is smart to stay silent, and aspects of business that need to remain confidential. To comment on every whisper that has spread round in the last 12 months would be folly.

As a football club Wanderers have not been obstructive when clarification has been sought on difficult matters, something which I personally thank them for.

But we have reached the stage where serious questions must be answered about the short and long-term future of Bolton Wanderers, especially if new ownership cannot be found. And the answers should be made available to the stakeholders, the fans, through their number one source of information.

Results have magnified the feeling of uncertainty but make no mistake the information would be just as relevant if Neil Lennon’s side were sitting pretty in the top two.

Furthermore, if the financial problems are as severe as they seem, surely the club needs to present a united force?

Even Lennon – an incredibly popular and charismatic manager who has the majority backing of the supporters despite a poor league position – says he is in the dark about certain issues. That does not paint a good picture.

This coming international break would be an ideal opportunity for a rallying call. For the club’s leadership to say: “We’re backed into a tight corner here and we need you to stick with us.” As the town’s newspaper we would be the first to back that stance, 100 per cent.

There have been extenuating circumstances in the last couple of weeks which have prevented this happening but, hopefully, there is scope for some solid dialogue between the club and the supporters from here on in.

I hope I’m reporting on positive news on the pitch this afternoon rather than negatives off it. The time for some straight talking is now.