Bolton Manager Ian Evatt Calls Fan Criticism “Outrageous,” Cites “Most Difficult” Personal Period

Bolton Wanderers manager Ian Evatt, who has secured 127 victories in his 252 matches leading the club, has characterized some of the fan criticism directed at him as “absolutely outrageous.” The Wanderers, who were League One play-off finalists last season, experienced a 2-0 home defeat against local rivals Wigan on Saturday, leaving them 12 points adrift of the top two positions. This week, Chairwoman Sharon Brittan issued a statement publicly confirming the board’s continued support for the 43-year-old manager, who has been at the helm of the Trotters since July 2020. Evatt conveyed to BBC Radio Manchester, “Some of the things have been absolutely outrageous for someone who has given four and a half years of his life to this football club – it’s extremely harsh.” He further stated, “I’m not going to lose sleep over it because I need to focus on the players and that’s where my focus is and should be.” Evatt added, “I’ve said enough and I don’t need to keep justifying myself and what I’ve achieved so far here. My win record speaks for itself.” He also remarked, “I’m only one man and I’ve taken a lot of heat and flak and people forget that I am human.” Evatt concluded, “It’s probably been the most difficult part of my life personally but I’m strong and I’m made of stern stuff.” Evatt guided the club to promotion from League Two in his initial season, and under his leadership, their final league standing has shown year-on-year improvement. Bolton, currently in eighth place, is scheduled to play League One leaders Wycombe on Friday. They are one point outside the play-off positions and hold two games in hand compared to some of the teams above them. The former Barrow manager indicated that while he appreciated the backing from the board, he would resign if he perceived a lack of similar support from the players. Evatt affirmed, “It’s great that I have the backing of the people who matter and the players have been the same. The minute I think the players don’t want to play for me I will leave, there’s no doubt about that.” He concluded by saying, “It’s not disastrous – it’s not like we’re out of it. We know what we need to do and I think there’s been too much said from me and from the outside. Actions speak louder than words.”