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Jack Iredale looks set to keep his place at wing-back for this weekend’s League One visit to Port Vale.
The Australian made his full debut in last weekend’s 3-0 win against Wycombe Wanderers and with Declan John struck down by illness, should continue at left wing-back for the trip to Vale Park.
John started against Salford City in the Carabao Cup but was withdrawn at half time because of stomach cramps and now looks doubtful for the squad.
Evatt has been pleased with the way Iredale has settled since signing from Cambridge United and says the defender is now becoming more accustomed to life at Bolton.
“It is different here than what Jack has been used to, so he has needed some time to get used to the intensity we train at, the level of detail we try to put into the players for their education,” the manager explained. “But he is an intelligent footballer who takes things on board.
“We obviously watched a lot of him and we understand what he can bring. We are pleased with him.”
Iredale impressed during the second half of Wanderers’ comprehensive cup win, creating a goal for Kieran Sadlier.
Evatt is not concerned by the speed at which the 26-year-old has been promoted to regular first team starter.
“Jack is exactly what we thought we were bringing in and he has hit the ground running since he has been here,” said the Bolton boss. “We have Declan as well, so we are spoiled for choice a little bit.
“Things change quickly in football and sometimes you are one tackle away from an injury or a spell on the sidelines. We can only work hard to keep them all in one piece and then try to make the right decisions selection-wise.
“For now, I want to enjoy two good home wins and then get ready for Port Vale.”
Kieran Lee returned to the side against Salford, with Evatt pleased by the experienced midfielder’s display on the night.
“Some games will suit Kieran more than others but he is a wonderful player, he completely understands what we require from him,” he said. “His football intelligence is first class.
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“Again, he showed there what a good player he can be.”
Lee played behind Jon Dadi Bodvarsson and Elias Kachunga – both brought in for their first start of the season – on what was an encouraging night for Evatt in an attacking sense.
“I thought the front two, Jon and Kacha, plus Kieran were leading lights for the rest of them to bounce off,” he beamed. “Their attitude was first class and it gave everyone something to follow.
“We have got some really good players and I have just named three of them. It is a good squad to manage and they are really good lads. We are happy with where we are but there is loads more to come.”