PHIL Parkinson is pleased with what he has seen from new signing Christian Doidge despite a fruitless Wanderers debut against QPR at the weekend.

The former Forest Green striker was praised for his work-rate after making his first appearance as a Championship player in Bolton’s 2-1 defeat.

Parkinson admits, however, that Doidge was left isolated at times - and he is looking for better as his side make the journey to fourth-placed Middlesbrough tomorrow night.

“I was pleased with Christian,” he told The Bolton News. “He worked tirelessly but we need to get people around him quicker. He won some good headers and won the free kick that led to the goal.

“But nothing really fell for him in the box, so he didn’t get a chance to show what he’s really good at, and that’s scoring goals.”

Doidge already has four goals to his name in League Two this season and Parkinson sees no reason why his form cannot translate to a higher level.

“I’m very pleased with what I have seen from him so far,” the manager said. “It’s a big step up, of course, but I think he’ll come on for playing against QPR and seeing what it’s like to play in the Championship.

“Coming from where he has, Chris knows he’s got to be sharper in everything he does. And that will come.

“He’s already learned training alongside better quality players the sort of standard he needs to get to. But he’s a very committed player, so I am sure he’ll get there.”

Josh Magennis will be challenging for a spot up from at the Riverside having shaken off a groin injury to take his place on the bench against QPR to grab his fourth goal of the season.

Parkinson is considering making changes to keep his side fresh, knowing another long trip awaits at Ipswich a few days later.

“It’s always been in the back of our mind that there are three games in quick succession, so we will look at making changes over the course of that period,” he said. “We’ve got to bounce back but our form away from home has been very good.”