Steven Schumacher has backed Gaizka Larrazabal to continue as a winger for Bolton Wanderers if needed this weekend. The manager confirmed the defender could fill the role again as the club works on finalising attacking signings before the window closes.
Bolton finished third in League One last season with 74 points from 44 games, scoring 67 goals and conceding 48. Their recent form was DWLDW. This context shapes their current push for squad depth. The story was first reported by The Bolton News.
Why is Larrazabal playing on the wing?
Gaizka Larrazabal, known as 'Larra' within the squad, joined Bolton on a free transfer from Portuguese side Casa Pia in July. He is primarily a right-back. With the club actively seeking winger options, Schumacher has deployed him higher up the pitch. The manager is not concerned about the tactical shift. "He is working it out. And he has had some experience of playing higher up as a winger, so I'm not worried about it," Schumacher said.
This move comes as loan players Samuel Iling-Junior and Kyliane Dong are being integrated into the squad. The transfer window is in its final week, increasing the urgency for more attacking reinforcements. Schumacher may continue with Larrazabal on the wing against Lincoln City if other options are not secured in time. Fans can track the evolving squad as the deadline approaches.
What is the latest on Bolton's injuries?
The defensive line has been impacted by recent setbacks. Akin Famewo suffered a knee injury and was forced off at half-time during Saturday's 0-0 draw at QPR's Loftus Road. The hope is that it was only an impact issue and will not rule him out for the weekend fixture.
Luca Stephenson, a defender on loan from Liverpool, has been lost for a few weeks. He picked up a thigh injury on the opening day of the season. These absences put pressure on the remaining defensive options, a situation detailed on the club's injuries page.
How did Lewis Brunt perform at right-back?
Lewis Brunt was brought in from Wrexham for £500,000 a week ago to play right-back. He started in that position against QPR and played the full 90 minutes. Brunt made nine defensive contributions in the match. Schumacher praised his display against a talented opponent. "It showed his versatility, his quality and his fitness." the manager stated.
It remains unclear how long Brunt will be required to fill the right-back role. His performance provides a solid foundation as the team prepares for the upcoming match. Supporters can view the team's defensive stats for more context on the season so far.
What happens next for Bolton?
The immediate focus is the home game against Lincoln City. Schumacher's decisions will hinge on late transfer activity and the fitness of players like Famewo. With a goal difference of +19 from last campaign, adding firepower remains a priority. The final days of the window will be decisive for Bolton's early-season plans as they aim to build on a third-place finish.
