Basham reveals Bolton glee

Basham: Enjoyed full debut

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Chris Basham has admitted he is still coming to terms with his promotion to the Bolton side.

The defender, who has had loan spells at Rochdale and Stafford Rangers in recent years, was thrown into Saturday's clash with Arsenal for his full debut.

Gary Megson had little option but to select Basham at right-back with Gretar Steinsson suspended and Nicky Hunt injured, but the 20-year-old turned in an assured performance.

Having put in shifts at McDonalds when he was released by Newcastle as a schoolboy, Basham could scarcely believe he was playing in the Premier League.

He said: "I worked at McDonalds when I was at college, it was the only job I could get.

"I know everyone thinks it is a bad job with a lot of graft but I enjoyed my time there.

"But then to find myself playing at the Emirates, it is mad, so mad. There were plenty of nerves and plenty of excitement. It was wonderful. This is what I have wanted all my life.

"The senior players helped me a lot. Matt Taylor told me to enjoy it and just play my normal game."

Taylor praise

Stand-in captain Taylor was impressed with Basham and has tipped the youngster for a bright future.

"In terms of a full debut and to come to the Emirates and play like he did, I thought it was fantastic," said the midfielder.

"He listens to what you tell him, he is willing to learn and hopefully he will have a good career."