WANDERERS were on the hunt for defensive cover last night as Dougie Freedman looked to build on a first win of the season.

Facing a hectic schedule of five games in 14 days, the Whites boss confirmed that he was lining up a short-term deal for a defender before this weekend’s trip to Wolves.

Freedman is known to be interested in Nottingham Forest utility man Greg Halford, while two former Crystal Palace defenders, Peter Ramage and Paddy McCarthy, have also been told they can leave Selhurst Park on loan and could interest the Scot.

“I think we need to bring in an extra body at the back to cope with the games we have got coming up,” said the manager. “With two midweek games and then Wolves and Derby I just want to make extra sure that we have got cover – so that’s what we’ll be looking to do.”

The club had yet to officially confirm goalkeeper Paddy Kenny or striker Max Clayton as The Bolton News went to press, although Freedman revealed after the 3-2 win over Rotherham United that both deals were formalities.

Freedman was keen to maintain a sense of perspective after Joe Mason’s hat-trick sealed a thrilling first win of the season.

Pressure remains on the manager’s shoulders to continue a climb away from the bottom three.

But he has been pleased with the character shown by his players in difficult circumstances, and now wants them to build on their midweek win.

“It’s always better to win with a bit of passion and pride,” he said. “I wouldn’t describe it as a relief to get the result, more that it backed up what I always believed the players were capable of.

“I still expect more from them. That’s the kind of guy I am.

“I try and stay calm and not get too carried away with one result but I do want to give some praise to the players because it was them who turned it around.

“I’ve been in that situation as a player and it is very, very difficult to dig in, and turn in round when there is so much expectation on your shoulders.”