Bolton makes Megson new manager

Bolton chairman Phil Gartside wants Megson to return his club back to a Premier League powerhouse.

Bolton chairman Phil Gartside insists new manager Gary Megson will have the full support of the dressing room.


Megson has signed a two-and-a-half year deal after controversially leaving Leicester just six weeks into the role.


Sammy Lee's successor will watch the UEFA Cup match against Braga tonight then take charge of the team for the first time on Sunday when they face Aston Villa.


While many Bolton supporters are questioning the appointment on websites, Gartside believes Megson can lift the players - and the club off the foot of the table.


He said: "We have made decisive decisions over the past few weeks and this is one of them.


"It is not about me, Gary Megson or any other individual. It is all about Bolton surviving in the Premier League.


"We have to be fully focused on the task ahead to make sure we achieve immediate success.


"I have spoken to the staff and the players and we are all committed to getting behind Gary and turning our fortunes around."


Gartside has been impressed by Megson's work ethic during his time as a manager.


He will be looking to turn around a team that has picked up only five points from 10 games.


Archie Knox was in charge of first team affairs in the defeat by Arsenal last weekend.


The Scottish coach briefly took control following the departure of former Football Association and Liverpool coach Lee by mutual consent.


Lee stumbled when he followed in the footsteps of Sam Allardyce - who later joined Newcastle - after taking over at the end of last season.


Under Allardyce, Bolton secured European football for the first time, became an established Premier League club and reached the final of the League Cup.


He was always going to be a hard act to follow and now Megson has picked up the baton. He will be unveiled to the media tomorrow.


Gartside said: "We feel Gary is the right man to take Bolton forward.


"We have been able to interview a number of quality candidates and after due consideration decided to offer him the post.


"I have paid particular attention to his career and he has demonstrated to me he is prepared to roll his sleeves up.


"He has the right temperament for a battle, which this season is undoubtedly going to be."