IAN Evatt is backing new loan signing Conor Bradley to prove just as popular at Wanderers as Marlon Fossey.

American Fossey was a big hit with fans during a short loan spell last season but will not be returning to the UniBol after Bolton failed to come to an agreement this summer.

Fossey has today stamped out rumour that he is about to join Rotherham United but is expected to play in the Championship next season.

The Fulham defender has been linked with a string of second-string clubs this summer – but posting on his official Twitter account, he dashed claims by that he had agreed terms with the Millers.

“I was wondering why people were congratulating me on my ‘move’ – this tweet isn’t true,” he said, quoting one journalist’s claim.

Evatt has wished the 23-year-old well in the future but believes in Northern Ireland international Bradley he has a player who can fill his boots.

“There are absolutely no hard feelings,” he told The Bolton News. “I have had conversations with Marlon this summer and everything has been transparent and honest. He respects that, and we respect him hugely.

“It wasn’t meant to be, but I believe nothing you are destined for will ever pass you by.

“It hasn’t worked out for Marlon this summer but I honestly wish him good luck and I hope he does well.

“From our perspective, though, I am happy to be signing Conor and I am sure the supporters will see very quickly what an excellent player he is. As much as Marlon became an iconic figure in our squad, I do believe Conor will do the same.

“We move on, things move on in football.”

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