Nolan praise for former boss

Bolton skipper looking to get one over on old manager

By Richard Bailey   Last updated: 14th November 2008

Kevin Nolan Bolton Wanderers 2008

Nolan: Relishing chance to beat Liverpool

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Bolton captain Kevin Nolan believes that one of the reasons Liverpool find themselves in the title chase this season is the arrival of Sammy Lee.

Lee joined the Reds in May as Rafa Benitez's assistant after an unsuccessful period in charge of the Trotters at the beginning of last season.

The former Liverpool midfielder was sacked last October after a disastrous 171 days in charge.

Despite this failure Lee is still highly regarded on the training pitch as a coach and Nolan believes he is a big reason why Liverpool are doing so well this season.

He said: "We were all sad to see Sammy go, but obviously the management side didn't particularly work for him.

"I think it was always going to be a tough job to follow in Sam Allardyce's footsteps. Sammy tried it his way but I didn't think it worked for us at the time.

"I'm sure he will learn from his mistakes if he goes into management again. You can see how good a coach he is and I think that's one of the major reasons why Liverpool are where they are."

Determined

Despite the respect Nolan has for Lee, the midfielder is still determined to get one over his former boss on Saturday, live on Sky Sports 1.

He said: "I've not spoken to Sammy for a good while but it will be nice to see him. I'd like to get one over on him this weekend but I'll also wish him all the best because he's a great fella."

The game will be extra special for Nolan as he supported the Reds as a child and he would want nothing more than to collect three points against them on Saturday.

He added: "I grew up supporting Liverpool but it's really nice to get one over on them."

Nolan has built a reputation as a goalscoring midfielder in previous seasons and, though he is yet to find the net this campaign, he is confident he will put it right.

He said: "I've missed chances, I've missed a penalty...I could go on all day. But I take responsibility and I know I've got to start scoring goals. It's a big part of my game but I'll start doing that again, I know I will."