Nolan Praise For Big Sam

Last updated : 29 June 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Nolan has cooled speculation linking him with a move to Newcastle and West Ham by insisting he is "excited" about playing under Sammy Lee at Bolton.

Bolton have already turned down a bid from Allardyce, and Nolan is thought to be on Hammers boss Alan Curbishley's summer shopping list as a replacement for Nigel Reo-Coker, who is expected to seal a switch to Aston Villa.

Nolan: "I'm really really excited about this season so it's up to me to make sure that I am in the team week in, week out.

"It should be good. I'm looking forward to the pre-season and getting fit and ready. Hopefully, I'll be raring to go come 11 August and have a good start against Newcastle United.

"Sam Allardyce knew what I was all about. He brought me into the team as a 17-year-old kid and at times you could rest on your laurels because he knows what you can do.

"Sammy has only known me for a couple of years and has only known me as an assistant manager really. Now he's the top man, I've got to impress him because you don't always see eye to eye with your assistant manager.

"That wasn't the case with Sammy and I was delighted that he got the job. I think he will be fantastic and hopefully we can take off and go even further from where Sam left us.

"Given time, support and patience I am sure that he will be able to do that."