Winger Adams in shock Shakers return (From The Bolton News)

Winger Adams in shock Shakers return

12:10pm Thursday 9th July 2009 in

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NICKY Adams is in line to make a sensational return to Gigg Lane by the end of this week.

Alan Knill has launched an ambitious bid to bring back the enigmatic winger from Leicester City on a season-long loan — just over 12 months after he left the club — and it is understood the deal may be wrapped up in time for the 22-year-old to face Everton tomorrow night in the Shakers’ opening pre-season game.

Adams quit Gigg Lane last July to sign a three-year contract with the Foxes in a deal worth around £100,000, plus add-ons, set by tribunal.

His move followed a hugely successful individual campaign, during which he scored 13 goals in 49 appearances.

But despite his form on the field, he often enjoyed a bittersweet relationship with fans on the terraces, a situation that was exasperated by his reluctance to sign a contract put before him in late 2007.

After its expiry, Adams was snapped up by Nigel Pearson as he oversaw a complete overhaul of the Leicester squad but played just 17 times for the eventual winners of League One before being loaned out to Rochdale at the end of last season.

Dale boss Keith Hill is said to be interested in taking him back to Spotland, with rival interest also appearing from League One side Southend.

But it is understood that the Shakers have come up with a sufficient financial package to bring him back to the fold, with reports in the Midlands suggesting a deal has been done to keep him at Gigg until the end of the season.

Adams would give options on either wing, providing competition for Michael Jones and Danny Racchi, and would step into the gap vacated by former loanee Elliott Bennett, who has now returned to Wolves.

Everton come to town tomorrow night to mark the start of the club’s 125th anniversary celebrations, and manager David Moyes has pledged to roll out a host of his Premier League stars.

Bury-born Phil Neville joins Leighton Baines, Leon Osman, Marouane Fellaini and Louis Saha in the Toffees’ squad, with Brazilian striker Jo also in line to play should he receive the necessary clearance.

Tickets for the game are priced at £12 for adults and £4 for concessions.

The Shakers also make their annual trip to Stainton Park to play Radcliffe Borough on Monday evening, 7.30pm kick-off.