Former Bolton player Brian Smith has passed away at the age of 57 after a short illness, Wanderers have announced tonight.

The Bolton-born midfielder made 57 appearances, scoring four goals, during five years at Burnden Park, making his debut in 1974.

He played in the 2-1 away victory over Manchester United in 1979, one of his last games before leaving Wanderers in the same year to join Blackpool.

He spent one season at Bloomfield Road before playing for Bournemouth for a year and then Bury where he spent a season.

He retired after a short spell in non-league with Salisbury City.