IAN Evatt is hopeful that Wanderers midfielder Josh Sheehan will be ready to return to full training for the start of pre-season.

The Welshman hasn’t featured since suffering an ACL injury against Stockport in the FA Cup back in November.

The Whites have tweaked their system since Sheehan’s injury but the Bolton boss insists he is suited to their current style of play.

Wanderers brought in Aaron Morley and Kyle Dempsey during the January transfer window, and will have real depth in the middle of the pitch when the Welshman returns.

Evatt is excited by the midfield options he will have at his disposal next season but is still determined to bolster his squad over the summer.

He added: “He’s there every day and we’re speaking with him. We’ve got a keen eye on his rehabilitation.

“He’s doing really well, he’s probably ahead of schedule. I would think for the start of pre-season, he’ll be back ready to join in with the group.

“It’s very exciting. He can play deeper, he can play as an eight or a number 10. He gives us great options.

“That midfield group when they’re all fit and healthy, it’s a strong group.

“What we have to remember also is that we’ve got another transfer window before the start of next season.

“We’re ahead of the game doing lots of work on who we need to target and where we need to improve.”

Sheehan was an important member of Evatt’s side during the first half of the season, contributing four goals from midfield including a stunning free kick against MK Dons on his debut.

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