Bolton's George Thomason on the club's new reserve side

Thomason featured for Sam Hird’s side in their opener against Accrington Stanley yesterday afternoon, getting two assists in a 2-1 win.

Due to the Whites' strength in depth in midfield, the 20-year-old has struggled to nail down a place in Ian Evatt’s starting XI so far this term.

He says the opportunity to play competitive fixtures in the Central League will make a big difference in the coming weeks and months.

“I thought it was a good, competitive game,” said Thomason.

“It was good to integrate some of the younger lads from the Under-18s with some of the first team players who came down for some minutes, and get used to each other and show them our tempo and how we play.

“And I think on a pitch like this, on a really hot day, we did really well at times and showed some positive signs.

“It’s so much better playing in competitive matches week in, week out.

“You’ve got something to play for and it’s another chance to get minutes under your belt if you’re not getting them on a Saturday with the first team.”

Hird’s men are back in action on Tuesday, September 14 in the Central League Cup, taking on Accrington Stanley once again.

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