Ian Evatt was pleased to see his Wanderers side show a ruthless edge during their 8-1 win against Manchester United Under-21s in the EFL Trophy.

Dan Nlundulu and Josh Sheehan both bagged braces, with Jon Dadi Bodvarsson, Gethin Jones, Nelson Khumbeni and Luke Matheson also getting on the scoresheet.

The Whites have now taken maximum points from their opening two group fixtures, also beating Salford last month.

“It was a good performance,” said Evatt. “What I liked about it was at times this season, especially early on when we have dominated the first half, we haven’t pushed on and today we did.

“It was great for Dan and Jon to get on the scoresheet. It’s also good for the two young lads to come on and get on the scoresheet. I think it was a good workout for everybody.”

The likes of Kyle Dempsey and Dion Charles were both rested as they deal with back and shoulder problems respectively.

“It wasn’t a selection, it is just all we have got,” Evatt grinned. “Kyle has been struggling with a back injury so it was good to give him some rest. Dion’s shoulder obviously, and Josh Dacres-Cogley has played every minute so he needed a rest.

“Fortunately for us, George (Thomason) and Gethin’s suspensions didn’t kick in so they could play. We managed to rotate the strikers and hopefully everyone has come through in one piece.

“Their attitude and intensity was excellent, even Cam (Jerome) coming on and working his socks off, pressing. He’s a great example.”

George Thomason impressed in the middle of the pitch, and the Bolton boss was pleased with his leadership qualities.

“We have spoken to the players about being leaders and not followers,” he explained. “I think at times in my tenure here, we have had too many followers and not enough leaders. I think that is now starting to change.

“George is growing into a leadership role, Toaly (Eoin Toal) is growing into a leadership role. You’ve got Geth, Rico (Santos) and other players, Cameron, who are growing into being leaders. It really helps the team.”