Anelka Glad To Be Back

By Mark Heys
August 30 2006

Bolton Wanderers new boy Nicolas Anelka has expressed his delight at returing to the English Premiership after an eighteen month exile.

The 27-year old Frenchman was unveiled in front of the watching media as the Trotters record £8 million signing earlier today and his first aim is to help his new club make the return to European football.

Anelka, who has had previous success in this country with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, says that he is looking forward to playing for his new manager Sam Allardyce.

"I'm here because Bolton came first. I know Manchester, I know Sam Allardyce is a big manager and he spoke to me. I'm glad to come back to England and play for him." said Anelka

He added "I saw Bolton last year and they played great - and I think it's a good club and a big challenge. I'm glad to be back in England to play for Bolton and try to play in Europe next season.

His love affair for the English game is something which persuaded him to return to these shores as soon as it became apparant that his last club Fenerbache where willing to offload him.

"I like England because of the way the game is played - very quick - and the fans, the way you play football here. I like everything about England and when I wanted to leave Fenerbahce I said I wanted to come back to England."

Anelka will make his debut for Bolton in their home game against top flight new boys Watford on Saturday week.