Bolton Wanderers boss Ian Evatt has delivered the reasoning for his inclusion of Matt Gilks in last night's win over Salford City.
Evatt watched on as his side got the better of Salford at the University of Bolton Stadium, with Eoin Doyle and a Jordan Turnbull own-goal securing the Trotters the points in Friday night's fixture.
There was a surprise inclusion for Gilks, too, with the goalkeeper getting his first taste of League Two action this season.
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That selection was one that Evatt had no issue making, with the Bolton boss having the ultimate faith in his former teammate.
As per Manchester Evening News, Evatt said: “I’ve known Matt a long, long time and I have the utmost faith and trust in him. He hasn’t played a competitive match for a year but the way he trains and the way he coaches, he’s all in and it’s 110% every day.
"I knew he wouldn’t let anybody down and he’s come in today with his voice more than anything else has led the team, got people organised, put people in their places.
"When he’s been called upon, he did what he had to do. He’ll probably be sore in the morning but we’ll take that all day for a clean sheet."
The win moved Bolton up to 15th in the League Two table, with Evatt's side now on 13 points and sitting quite comfortably in mid-table ahead of this afternoon's fixtures.
It was just Bolton's third win of the season and their first since the 1-0 win over Bradford City on October 27th.
The Verdict
Gilks is a goalkeeper that's got heaps of experience. He's 38 and seen so much over his career.
He is, perhaps, the ideal man for this Bolton side. They are still finding their feet after a turbulent few years and Evatt trusts what the goalkeeper can do.
His performance last night was almost flawless and an extended run in the side might now be on the horizon.
That could be great news for Bolton as they look to climb the table.
Thoughts? Let us know!