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Ian Evatt has called for “laser focus” from his Wanderers squad in FA Cup week – and is backing in-form skipper Ricardo Santos to help get the job done.
Confidence is high in the Bolton camp after three successive victories put them firmly back in the automatic promotion chase in League One.
Santos joined team-mate Randell Williams in the EFL team of the week, as the win against Charlton put them level on points with second-placed Oxford United.
Evatt believes his captain deserves the plaudits that come his way.
“Rico has got it all and we are extremely fortunate to have him,” he told The Bolton News. “We have seen his development as a player over the last few years and he absolutely loves this football club, and so do his family. In return, we love him as well.
“He is a top player and I honestly believe that. We have other players in this squad who are showing themselves to be top players as well, which is exciting.
“For us all now it is about achieving our ambitions, it is our sole focus. Nothing else should waver that vision now, it has to be about concentration on what we need to do.
“When you win it is nice to enjoy the moment, enjoy the praise, but if you want to win regularly then you have to be able to reset and move on.
“You need laser focus, so we want to keep this momentum going, and look ahead to an FA Cup game on Saturday.”
Evatt was also delighted to see the backing given to vice-captain, Gethin Jones, at The Valley.
Given a rough ride by the critics in the light of his red card against Peterborough United a few weeks ago, Jones has responded well since his return to the side.
“Football is a game where people are written off really quickly, and people do have short memories,” Evatt added.
“Gethin has been an incredible part of my journey here. He has been a big part of the club’s journey as well and I think he should be respected and appreciated.”
National League Solihull Moors warmed up for this weekend’s cup game with a 1-0 home win against Wealdstone on Saturday, and their manager, ex-Brighton and Coventry City defender Andrew Whing, believes his club will be in the mood to cause an upset, with around 500 of the club's fans expecting to make the trip.
“We’re really looking forward to it, it is a massive game for the football club. We know that,” he said.
“We are taking a few fans up there and it will be a big crowd.
“It will be a great occasion for the football club, we just have to focus on going there and trying to win a game of football. We can’t go there and not think like that.
“We’ll rest and recover now, ask how we get better, have a look at them. It’s one to look forward to, hopefully!”
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