GETHIN Jones was relieved to see his fellow ‘original Wanderer’ Ricardo Santos commit his future to the club this summer.

The only two players named by Ian Evatt in his first line-up against Bradford City in September 2020, are now vice-captain and captain of the club.

Speculation had built over Santos – who was entering into the final year of his contract – and some worried that Wanderers would have to cash-in on the defender amid interest from a handful of Championship sides.

But a new three-year deal was agreed, and Jones reckons by keeping hold of the former Peterborough United man Bolton have done some excellent business.

“Me and Rico have been here together since the start and the first thing I said when I heard he’d got a deal was ‘that’s a proper statement’ – I was made up for him,” he told The Bolton News.

“Even before the season had finished I was texting him every other day to ask what was happening. He didn’t give much away to begin with but about a week before he signed he told me he was staying, so I was really happy.

“We all want to stay at Bolton and enjoy playing for the club but this is a really big deal because we know Rico, and we know he can play at a higher level.

“He’s probably the best centre-back I have ever played with and I think by keeping him shows where this club is actually going.”

Ian Evatt says fans may have to be patient as he waits for top targets to become available this summer, with another two players on his shortlist for the new season.

Jones believes the competition can drive the club to success this season.

“Every player who comes in adds that extra bit of competition and I think as players you realise that has got to happen if you want to be successful,” he said.

“I think since January we have had a very, very strong squad and nobody has been able to guarantee their place for the next game. We have had players who can make a massive difference coming off the bench and it has been brilliant for us.

“Hopefully we will get a few more in but we’ll wait and see what the manager’s thoughts are. But anyone who comes in, we’ll welcome them with open arms so we can get this season going and have a very good one, hopefully.”