Ian Evatt admits it was “tough” to leave out Kieran Sadlier for Wanderers’ opener against Ipswich at the weekend.

The versatile wideman has impressed since joining from Rotherham back in January and found the net with a superb strike in the friendly against Huddersfield.

Evatt is confident Sadlier will be a “really important player” for the Whites this season and says everyone will have a part to play over the coming months.

When asked about the omission, the Bolton chief explained: “(It was) tough but we’re away at Ipswich, we have to remember that.

“We’ve got a load of attacking options and Kieran is one of those and we’ve got loads of forward players.

“But we’re away at Ipswich and this is a really tough place to come so he’s going to be a really important player for us this season. As they all are really.

“We’ve got no wastage in the squad now, that is one thing I look at. Everybody can play and everyone can play a part and improve us in certain circumstances and against different opposition, so stick together.

“There are going to be disappointed people, but they are all going to have a part to play.”   

Ricardo Santos is entering his first full season as captain at Wanderers and played a key role in their defensive effort against the Tractor Boys.

“He is our captain and our leader, and ably assisted by Gethin (Jones),” added Evatt.

“But we’ve got a good group now that really want to win and really want to improve and they are very much together so I’m looking forward to this season.”

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