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Ian Evatt says new signing Jak Hickman has “learned his lesson” after the blunder which cost him his career at Coventry City.
The 21-year-old defender was fined and placed on the transfer list by the Sky Blues in 2019 after making disparaging remarks about the club on a video which circulated online.
He quickly apologised but failed to play another game for the club and was released in the summer.
Wanderers brought him in at the start of pre-season for a trial and after impressing Evatt and the coaching staff he has now been handed a one-year deal, with the potential of another 12 months.
“Jak had issues with his previous club Coventry City after a huge mistake on social media, which he paid the price for,” said the Bolton head coach.
“I am all for giving people a chance and we have had in him over an extensive period to test him technically, tactically, physically and, more importantly, mentally; he came through with flying colours.
“He has a lot of ability for a young player and now has the chance to get his career back on track.
“Jak has learned his lesson and has my full support.”
Hickman started his football career in West Brom’s youth academy and has also had experience of non-league football at Ashton United, Bromsgrove and Hereford.
The Sandwell-born defender, who primarily plays as a right-back, was also contrite as he signed for his new club.
“I’ve been here for a few weeks but to finally get the deal over the line feels like a dream come true and I’m really excited to be here,” he said. “I’ve made mistakes in the past but I have learned from them. The experiences have made me a better player and person.
“I’m looking forward to this next chapter and moving in a positive direction to help the club get back where it should be.
“Bolton is a massive club and speaks for itself.”
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The 21-year-old defender was fined and placed on the transfer list by the Sky Blues in 2019 after making disparaging remarks about the club on a video which circulated online.
He quickly apologised but failed to play another game for the club and was released in the summer.
Wanderers brought him in at the start of pre-season for a trial and after impressing Evatt and the coaching staff he has now been handed a one-year deal, with the potential of another 12 months.
“Jak had issues with his previous club Coventry City after a huge mistake on social media, which he paid the price for,” said the Bolton head coach.
“I am all for giving people a chance and we have had in him over an extensive period to test him technically, tactically, physically and, more importantly, mentally; he came through with flying colours.
“He has a lot of ability for a young player and now has the chance to get his career back on track.
“Jak has learned his lesson and has my full support.”
Hickman started his football career in West Brom’s youth academy and has also had experience of non-league football at Ashton United, Bromsgrove and Hereford.
The Sandwell-born defender, who primarily plays as a right-back, was also contrite as he signed for his new club.
“I’ve been here for a few weeks but to finally get the deal over the line feels like a dream come true and I’m really excited to be here,” he said. “I’ve made mistakes in the past but I have learned from them. The experiences have made me a better player and person.
“I’m looking forward to this next chapter and moving in a positive direction to help the club get back where it should be.
“Bolton is a massive club and speaks for itself.”
Source