Fortune Impresses On Trial

By Mark Heys
July 14 2006

Former Manchester United midfielder Quinton Fortune could have earned himself a contract after impressing at the Wanderers training camp in Switzerland.

The South African star was released by United at the end of last season after seven years at Old Trafford and is currently on the lookout for a new club going into the new season.

Celtic became the immediate front runners for his signature and Fortune even held talks with the Glasgow club before deciding against the move citing that he wanted to remain in England for the sake of his young family.

This opened the door for a training stint with Bolton and Trotters cheif Sam Allardyce says that the player has done very well so far during his time with the club.

"I am hopeful that everything will go to plan and we will sign him on a permanent basis,"

"Quinton Fortune, without any question, would be a top player for us if he stays fit. He has had a few injuries based on his record over the past two years. He has done himself a real favour by committing to our training regime to prove his fitness," he told the club's website.

Allardyce has already wrapped up the permanent signings of Idan Tal and Abdoulaye Meite earlier this summer and is hopeful of making more additions to the Wanderers squad.

Meanwhile chairman Phil Gartside has insisted that Trotters captain Kevin Nolan will not be leaving the club after recent speculation suggested that Tottenham Hotspur could be making a move for the 24-year old goalgetter.