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Dion Charles is inching back to his best – just in time for the play-offs.
That’s the view of Ian Evatt, who watched his top-scorer grab his first goal since January from the penalty spot at Peterborough United on Saturday.
Charles has started the last two games for Bolton but had been absent from the first 11 for the previous 14 matches because of a knee problem.
He played 75 minutes in the 3-3 draw at London Road, scoring his 18th goal of the season in all competitions, and showed signs that he is returning to his best, says Evatt.
“I think Dion is getting back to himself,” he told The Bolton News. “I think it was important we managed to get him and Aaron Collins off in the end because it gives them a little bit more rest and recuperation for the big games to come, same for Ricardo Santos.
“The goal will do Dion good of course, but he’s a confident lad, he knows what he’s capable of doing and he’ll be a big player for us going into what comes after.”
Victor Adeboyejo could add to Bolton’s attacking resources for the two-legged play-off against Barnsley, with the Nigerian striker now back in full training following a hamstring injury.
He has missed the last nine games since limping out of the 2-2 draw against Exeter City on March 9.
It is still unclear whether Barnsley will have caretaker manager Martin Devaney in charge for Friday night’s game or whether they will accelerate an appointment to replace Neil Collins before the play-offs begin.
Austrian Dominik Thalhammer had been linked with the post, although reports suggest work permit issues could have prevented the move going through. MK Dons head coach Mike Williamson is also said to be of interest to the Tykes – but his club is also currently involved in the play-offs in League Two.
Devaney admitted that he is in the dark over his future having overseen the previous game against Northampton Town.
“I don’t know what is happening. I am just going to enjoy today," he told the Barnsley Chronicle after the weekend’s 1-1 draw, which dropped them down to sixth spot with virtually the last kick of the game.
"I don’t know if I will be in charge for the play-offs, I haven’t been told anything. I am sure we will know what we are doing by Monday.”
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