STEVE Bruce says he understands why Bolton boss Gary Megson took the controversial decision to field virtually a reserve side in Thursday night's UEFA Cup tie in Lisbon.

Their teams go head to head at Wigan tomorrow when victory for Wanderers would not only lift them out of the drop zone but above their 13th-placed opponents on goal difference.

"It's a decision he won't have taken lightly," said Bruce.

"I think in management the one thing you have to do is make decisions and it's a big call, a big decision.

"I'm sure he's had a chat with his chairman and said, look, the Premier League is of vital importance'.

Read the full story in The Bolton News on Saturday.