Johan Mjallby reckons Wanderers need some “crazy guys” in the camp if they are to succeed next season.
Although Neil Lennon’s rebuilding process is yet to get off the ground, his right-hand man has given fans a glimpse into some of the qualities they will be looking for in potential signings this summer.
Lennon cast doubts on his side’s mentality at times last year, particularly as they developed a habit of conceding late goals, which contributed to a major slump in the last few months of the campaign.
And Mjallby believes Wanderers’ soft-centre was down to the lack of strong characters in the squad – something the club aim to put right quickly.
“We need leaders. It’s going to be very important,” he told The Bolton News.
“You need a few characters in the team and in the squad, three or four who can be our extra arm out there.
“You need people on the pitch who you can give advice and instruction on how to change the game.
“It is important. Every successful team has a good spirit, good players, and a couple of crazy guys who are stronger characters.”
One potential recruit who ticks the “leader” box is Rotherham United defender Craig Morgan, who skippered the Millers to safety last term.
It is understood the Wales international is still on track to sign at Wanderers despite little progress in the deal over recent weeks.
Manchester-based Morgan is officially out of contract at the New York Stadium and free to talk with other clubs but is keen to link-up with Lennon, who tracked his progress through much of last season.
His leadership qualities could be vital after the loss off Matt Mills, and with Jay Spearing – the man who started last season as captain – seemingly surplus to requirement.
Lennon has faced a frustratingly slow start to his rebuilding plan but is believed to be very close to tying up a deal for ex-Sheffield Wednesday striker Gary Madine.
Only fine details need sorting before the 24-year-old becomes Wanderers’ first signing of the season.
Madine is expected to sign for the Whites at the start of next month after turning down offers from two other Championship clubs, thought to be Birmingham City and Leeds United, and League One Blackpool.
Source
Although Neil Lennon’s rebuilding process is yet to get off the ground, his right-hand man has given fans a glimpse into some of the qualities they will be looking for in potential signings this summer.
Lennon cast doubts on his side’s mentality at times last year, particularly as they developed a habit of conceding late goals, which contributed to a major slump in the last few months of the campaign.
And Mjallby believes Wanderers’ soft-centre was down to the lack of strong characters in the squad – something the club aim to put right quickly.
“We need leaders. It’s going to be very important,” he told The Bolton News.
“You need a few characters in the team and in the squad, three or four who can be our extra arm out there.
“You need people on the pitch who you can give advice and instruction on how to change the game.
“It is important. Every successful team has a good spirit, good players, and a couple of crazy guys who are stronger characters.”
One potential recruit who ticks the “leader” box is Rotherham United defender Craig Morgan, who skippered the Millers to safety last term.
It is understood the Wales international is still on track to sign at Wanderers despite little progress in the deal over recent weeks.
Manchester-based Morgan is officially out of contract at the New York Stadium and free to talk with other clubs but is keen to link-up with Lennon, who tracked his progress through much of last season.
His leadership qualities could be vital after the loss off Matt Mills, and with Jay Spearing – the man who started last season as captain – seemingly surplus to requirement.
Lennon has faced a frustratingly slow start to his rebuilding plan but is believed to be very close to tying up a deal for ex-Sheffield Wednesday striker Gary Madine.
Only fine details need sorting before the 24-year-old becomes Wanderers’ first signing of the season.
Madine is expected to sign for the Whites at the start of next month after turning down offers from two other Championship clubs, thought to be Birmingham City and Leeds United, and League One Blackpool.
Source