Steven Schumacher singled out Max Conway for praise after the Bolton Wanderers defender stepped in for an injured Akin Famewo against West Ham United. The 23-year-old left-back delivered a solid performance in the 3-2 defeat, continuing a remarkable personal ascent that has seen him climb a division in each of the last five seasons.
Schumacher told reporters that Conway was excellent in the high-pressure fixture. "Max was excellent," the manager said. "He is a listener and he takes everything on board." The defender's journey began with a loan at Buxton in the National League North, followed by spells with Rochdale and AFC Fylde in the National League, a move to Crewe Alexandra in League Two, and finally earning a regular first-team spot with Bolton in the Championship.
Sheehan returns after reprieve
The match also saw the return of Josh Sheehan to the Bolton midfield. The Wales international was available after the Football Association’s disciplinary committee overturned the red card he received at Millwall, a decision confirmed on Tuesday morning. Sheehan, who is enjoying his first taste of Championship football after starting his career at Swansea City, provided a steady presence in the centre of the park.
The match in brief
West Ham took an early lead through Jarrod Bowen in the 13th minute, but Bolton fought back impressively. Eoin Erhahon equalised five minutes later, and Ricardo Rodrigues put the home side ahead from the penalty spot in the 27th minute. The lead was short-lived, as Konstantinos Mavropanos levelled for the Hammers four minutes later. Bowen secured the win for the visitors with his second goal in the 77th minute.
The result leaves Bolton 21st in the Championship with four points from six games, having scored six and conceded twelve. Their recent form shows one win in their last five outings, a 1-0 victory over Cardiff City last time out.
Conway's reliable display offers a positive note for Schumacher as he looks to solidify his defensive options ahead of that key away match. The manager's public endorsement shows the club's faith in a player whose career trajectory has been defined by consistent, year-on-year improvement.
