PHIL Parkinson believes Sammy Ameobi will catch up quickly with the rest of the Wanderers pack in pre-season.

The new signing made his first appearance in a Bolton shirt in last night’s 2-1 win at Dundee.

And while Parkinson admits Ameobi’s fitness levels are a little behind his team-mates after weeks of negotiating his future, he was pleased with the winger’s contribution at Dens Park.

“He is behind the lads in terms of his pre-season but I think considering that fact he coped well,” he told The Bolton News.

“We played him out on the right, which is where he did well for us last season, but he can play anywhere across the front three. I think we’ll need that flexibility this season.

“We’re pleased to get him in because we know he can make a difference for us.”

Goals from Gary Madine and Josh Vela sealed a third win on the trot for Parkinson’s men and capped off a successful time in Scotland.

“It was a great test because their season starts Tuesday, they were fit, they were sharp and they were ahead of us in their preparation,” the manager said.

“First half I was really pleased because we kept the ball well, kept control of the game and got two great goals from Gary and Josh.

“Second half, when the lads came on for the extra 15 minutes, I thought we got caught a little bit cold kicking up that slope on a massive pitch.

“Dundee raised their game and then when we made the changes the game became disjointed, Mark (Howard) made some good saves and they got one back, which looked offside to us.

“I was pleased, though, because the lads remained disciplined and saw the game through.”