Gavin Bazunu believes his inside knowledge of Southampton can help Bolton Wanderers in a key Championship clash this weekend. The 24-year-old goalkeeper spent four seasons with the Saints before his summer move to the University of Bolton Stadium and is expected to start against his former club on Saturday.
"If anything, it just brings a bit of familiarity," Bazunu said. The Republic of Ireland international, who has established himself as first-choice keeper, stated that regular football has helped him regain his rhythm after a period of injury and inconsistency. He is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the league for his ability to play out from the back.
Bolton travel to the south coast sitting 14th in the table with 13 points from 10 games, just one point outside the play-off places. Their recent form has been mixed, with a 3-1 victory at Wolves on Tuesday night following a home defeat to Stoke City. That win at Molineux, where Bazunu made a game-changing second-half save, moved the team five points clear of the relegation zone and built momentum ahead of a difficult away trip.
Southampton, currently seventh, present a significant challenge but arrive under a cloud. The club was deducted four points and excluded from last season's play-offs due to the 'Spygate' scandal, while manager Tonda Eckert received a suspended six-week ban and a fine from the Football Association. The Saints have lost their last three league matches, conceding ten goals in the process.
Despite being viewed as underdogs, Bolton are confident they can build on their Molineux performance. The team's recent results, including a 4-3 win at Norwich, show they can score goals on the road, with Sam Dalby the top scorer this season with four. Check the latest standings to see how the table shapes up.
Bazunu's return to St Mary's will be his first as a visitor, and his insights into the club's culture and playing style are seen as a valuable asset for Bolton's preparations. The squad will look to tighten a defence that has conceded 18 goals this season as they aim for a positive result on 17 October. Bazunu added.
The original report is at The Bolton News
