Espartero comes to Bolton's aid
Thursday, February 21, 2002
Article summary
Bolton Wanderers FC have signed French midfield player Mario Espartero from FC Metz.
Article body
Bolton Wanderers FC have signed French midfield player Mario Espartero from FC Metz on a three-month loan deal.
Fourth signing
Subject to international clearance, Espartero will become manager Sam Allardyce's fourth signing in the last three weeks, joining compatriots Gérard Forchelet and Youri Djorkaeff at the Reebok stadium as well as Danish international Stig Tøfting.
Rangers trial
The 24-year-old Espartero, who had a trial with Scottish UEFA Cup hopefuls Rangers FC earlier this season, has been with the Metz for the last two seasons. Allardyce said of Thursday's move: "It's a bit of a surprise to us because we thought it was dead and buried. He is here until the end of the season and hopefully he will settle in as quickly as possible and be a useful member of the squad from now until the end of the season.”
'Feels like home'
Bolton are currently lying 17th in the FA Premiership, just three points clear of the relegation zone, and Allardyce admits the player has to quickly adapt to the rigours of English football. "We need him to play to his best almost immediately," Allardyce added on the club's official website. "That's the nature of the situation we are in. But there are enough French lads here so it must be feeling like home."
