IPSWICH boss Paul Hurst has praised the way Phil Parkinson and his staff have kept Wanderers on message during difficult circumstances.

News of Bolton’s financial issues, coupled with some tragic news off the field, have spread right around footballing circles in the past couple of weeks.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Hurst spoke of his admiration for Parkinson and the way he has not allowed outside influences to affect his team’s performance.

“They stayed up on the last day and there have obviously been some issues at the football club but knowing Phil Parkinson, Steve Parkin and his staff, they won’t allow that to influence how the players go about their business,” he said. “They do a very good job and have always been a difficult team to play against. I don’t see that being any different on Saturday.”

Ipswich are still seeking their first win of the Championship season but start as marginal favourites on Saturday at Portman Road.

The Tractor Boys will be without ex-Bolton striker Jonathan Walters, who has been missing with a knee injury since going on international duty with the Republic of Ireland.

Hurst foresees a tough game between two of the bookies’ pre-season relegation favourites.

“We won’t be disrespectful to Bolton in any way, shape or form, we’ll have to put a lot of quality into the game,” he said.

“They have got some very experienced players in there and have made a pretty good start to the season. I think they’ll be happy, overall, with the start they have had.”