DECLAN John says he didn’t dwell too long over the decision to sign on a permanent basis for Wanderers.

Last season’s loan star played a major part in the club’s promotion to League One after arriving from Swansea City in January.

Speculation raged over whether Ian Evatt could convince the Wales international to sign after his contract at the Liberty Stadium ran out – but John insists he did not deliberate for too long.

“I had the connection from last season, from the team doing so well, so it was an easy choice to come back,” he said.

“I needed a few weeks to relax and think on things but as soon as there was a chance to come back I spoke to the gaffer and I think it got done in a few days.

“We’ll be talking about that (the promotion) for years, especially the position we were in. For us to go and do that run was absolutely superb and it’s just the connection I had with the club, the fans – even though we haven’t had them in the stadium yet – and obviously the gaffer and the boys.”

John arrived at Bolton in January having not played competitive football for more than 12 months and after finding his full fitness, cemented the left wing-back slot at the UniBol.

The defender, who turns 26 today, looks back at the decision to quit Swansea as a career-defining moment.

“I could have easily sat there, being honest. I wouldn’t have wanted that but it was a choice I needed to make,” he said. “When the choice came I knew I needed to come and play football.

“I did that last season and long may that continue.”

Wanderers have added eight new names to the squad this summer and John is confident that can help them challenge at the right end of the table in League One.

“We have brought in some decent signings for this season, and the team we had was a good platform to build on,” he told the club. “We have tried to strengthen that, which is good news, now we just have to stay healthy, stay fit, and go into the season flying.”