Wanderers In Fernandes U-Turn

By Mark Heys
September 1 2005

Fabrice Fernandes has completed his switch to Bolton Wanderers after Sam Allardyce resurrected his interest in the ex-Southampton wide man earlier this afternoon.

The 25-year old moves to the Reebok Stadium on an initial one year contract after severing his ties with the Saints prior to the closure of the summer transfer window.

Fernandes had been training with the Wanderers during the early part of this week but the deal looked to be heading towards a collapse this morning as Bolton chairman Phil Gartside pulled the plug on a deal.

However Gartside was persuaded to reconsider by Trotters manager Sam Allardyce, leaving the former Fulham, Rennes and Marseille flier free to make a near instant return to Premiership football.

At his best Fernandes is excellent in dead ball situations and has a abundance of skill and ability which can only benefit the Wanderers during the next twelve months.

Allardyce had no hesitation in landing the Frenchman when he realised that he was without employment having fell out of favour with Saints manager Harry Redknapp recently.

"Fabrice will add depth to our side and being a left sided player he is a rare commodity in the modern game. Once I heard that he wasn't affiliated to a Club, I moved quickly to bring him in."

"Fabrice is a high-energy player who knows the Premiership inside out. He has a sweet left foot and an abundance of skill, which will complement our talented squad."

Fernandes himself was impressed with the overall set-up at the club during his trial period and hoped that his move to Bolton would help the club continue their recent progression as one of the leading clubs in the Premiership.

"I am pleased to be joining such a progressive football club. I've been training here for a couple of days and the talent and spirit in the camp, was one of the main reasons why I decided to join.

"Bolton are now regarded as a top team in the Premier League and I'm looking forward to playing my part in their continued success."

Walking Down The Manny Road would like to welcome Fabrice to Bolton.