West Brom vs Bolton: Strikes, unpaid bills rock Trotters’ build-up

Albion may have had their own problems with players going AWOL, but Bolton’s squad refused en masse to play St Mirren in a pre-season friendly last month.

The players released a statement saying the strike was over unpaid wages and bonuses.

On top of that, the club are embroiled in an ongoing dispute with caterers for their stadium.

It’s made for an ugly summer off the pitch, and things weren’t going too well on the pitch either when they lost 3-1 in a friendly to National League outfit Guiseley.

However, fortunes have turned around slightly in the past week.

Not only did Phil Parkinson’s men sign off pre-season with a 2-0 win over Peterborough, they also signed Northern Ireland striker Josh Magennis this week for £200,000 from Charlton.

It was the club’s first cash signing since January 2015.

Parkinson, though, is understandably refusing to get carried away.

“Before I can answer where I expect us to be, we need to get some more players in,” he told reporters in the north-west. “Everyone knows where the gaps are in my squad.

“That’s my target this week so I am not going to worry about making predictions until my squad is in place. We will have a better idea of where we stand after what I hope will be a busy week.”

One player in Bolton colours who will interest Albion fans is Jason Lowe, who was on trial with the Baggies last summer before he joined Birmingham City.

This summer he has pitched up at The Trotters as a free agent, and he’s impressed Parkinson so far. “Jason Lowe was the best player on the park against Peterborough,” said the Bolton boss. “We’ve given him lots of minutes this pre-season because he didn’t really get that this year.

“He looks like he’s right up to speed.

“He’s a good player. He’s a leader, very vocal, and he sets high standards.”

With Clayton Donaldson a doubt for this weekend’s match following a groin strain picked up against Posh, new signing Magennis is expected to make his debut.

“I was itching to get here,” said the Northern Ireland international.

“The size of the club was the big thing that caught my attention. To top it off I spoke to the manager, his ambition, and how he saw me playing in his team were the big factors (in wanting to sign).

“It was an easy decision for me to make.

“I’ve been blessed to play international football with Northern Ireland so I know the expectations of playing at a high level.”

Bolton added to their squad yesterday with the signing of Luke Murphy on a two-year deal after his release by Leeds.

Danger man:

Josh Magennis

The Northern Ireland international is Bolton’s first cash signing for more than three years, and while he may not have played in the Championship before, he will be determined to hit the ground running for boss Phil Parkinson, who has chased him since January.

Reached double figures in League One last season.