Nolan hoping for Rafa rage

Nolan: Liverpool test

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Bolton midfielder Kevin Nolan revealed how he is hoping to hear Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez complaining again after the two sides meet on Sunday.

The Spanish boss has criticised the Trotters' over-physical style in recent meetings - publicly stating: "This is not football".

The 25-year-old is aiming to pile the pressure on the Reds boss, and admits any post-match complaints from the Liverpool boss will mean his side have come out of the meeting on top.

"When managers go away moaning that is the way we want it," said Nolan.

"When they are going away moaning that means most of the time they have gone away with no points at all.

"Hopefully that will be the case on Sunday."

European run

Bolton have only won twice in their last nine Premier League matches and have not scored at home in three hours and 47 minutes.

Despite loitering perilously close to the relegation zone - boss Gary Megson has guided the side into the last 16 of the Uefa Cup where they face Sporting Lisbon at home on Thursday.

Megson was not a popular choice to replace Sammy Lee when he was appointed in October, but Nolan has heaped praise on the former Leicester boss' astute tactical ability.

"The gaffer took a lot of stick when he first came," said Nolan.

"A lot of people have opinions about how the game should be played but the gaffer wanted to do the right thing and that was to play football.

"He has instilled belief in the players.

"Hopefully we can get the ball rolling on Sunday by getting back to winning ways against Liverpool.

Massive

As a boyhood Liverpool fan, Nolan admitted this is the clash he looks for first when the fixture list is announced.

"This is always one I look out for," he said.

"Sunday's game is a massive game and whether you are playing the top eight or the bottom eight, every game is tough.

"They are a great team, with great support and a team close to my heart.

"They have a tough challenge with Everton, Aston Villa and Man City pushing for the top four so they are going to come here all guns blazing."