GEORGE Thomason has turned down the chance to sign for Bristol City and will be staying at Bolton Wanderers.

Ian Evatt has confirmed that the 22-year-old midfielder will be staying with the Whites after a bid worth £1million was accepted by the club over the weekend.

Thomason was given the final say on his move to Ashton Gate but officially turned down the opportunity earlier today.

“He will be staying with us,” said the Bolton boss. “We have had lots of conversations over the weekend and George has never once expressed a desire to leave this club. He loves being here, we love him here. He is a young player with a huge amount of talent with a huge amount of progression left in him too, so after many heart-to-heart chats with him over the weekend I can say he has no desire to leave.”

Wanderers informed City of their valuation on Friday and with Nigel Pearson keen to strengthen his midfield in the summer window, a seven-figure bid was quickly made.

Thomason was offered a lucrative contract at Ashton Gate but Evatt insists the finances involved played no part in his decision making.

“It was a big decision – and every player has a valuation at this club, so when it is met then it becomes the player’s decision. That doesn’t mean to say we wanted him to leave but we are a business and player trading will have to play a part in it.

“I have to say, George from minute one expressed a desire to stay and be a part of what we are doing here. And I have to say it is very refreshing to see a young man with the ethics and morals he has.

“We have shown him a lot of faith, trust and loyalty and he wanted to repay that.

“It is great credit to him, and I am delighted he is staying.”