WANDERERS boss Ian Evatt says he “can’t speak highly enough” of midfielder George Thomason.

The 20-year-old has had to be patient for opportunities this season due to the Whites’ strength in midfield.

But with Josh Sheehan and MJ Williams facing spells on the sidelines, Thomason now looks set to get a run in the side.

Evatt says the midfielder has “a great opportunity” and insists he will learn lots from playing alongside Kieran Lee.

“George wants it and needs it and deserves it,” said the Bolton boss.

“He’s a young player. Last season ended very well for him, he had great success and had to be patient earlier on this season, which has kind of stunted his development.

“But now he’s got a great opportunity to get a run in the team playing alongside a fantastic footballer in Kieran Lee, who he’s learning from all the time.

“We’re working with George all the time and I have no problem or issue with trusting him with that responsibility. I think he’s a fantastic young man and a fantastic young player.

“I can’t speak highly enough of George. As I said he’s a wonderful young man and a wonderful footballer.

“The best thing I can probably say is if my daughter was at the right age, I’d be more than happy to take George home to her – that’s probably the highest accolade I could give to George.”

Thomason has been nominated for Rising Star at the North West Football Awards, which takes place this evening.

“It was a proud moment to be recognised for what I did last season along with a lot of top young footballers,” said the midfielder.

Social, newsletters, subscriptions and getting in touch...

You can follow the Bolton News on social media, by joining us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

We also have dedicated Facebook groups on Crime & Court, Traffic & Travel, Nostalgia and our Camera Club page

If you want to make sure you don't miss the most important news stories every day, sign up to one of our free e-mail newsletters 

Gain unlimited access to the Bolton News website with a premium digital subscription - we are running a £2 for two months special offer

Or if you want the Bolton News newspaper delivered to your door, get in touch with our home delivery team or call us on 0800 953 0227

Finally, have you got a story for us? If so, contact us at newsdesk@theboltonnews.co.uk or by using our online contribution form