Ian Evatt has departed Bolton Wanderers 'by mutual consent' following Tuesday's dramatic 2-1 defeat to Charlton Athletic.

The Addicks came from behind to score twice in the final 15 minutes and inflict another defeat on the Whites, leaving them ninth in League One.

At the helm for over five years, the former Blackpool defender won promotion from League Two in his first campaign after joining from Barrow.

Two failed play-off campaigns and an EFL Trophy win later, Evatt departs with a 50 per cent win ratio but a run of three wins in nine matches turned supporters against him.

Bolton Wanderers Chairman Sharon Brittan told the club website: “Ian arrived at a challenging time for Bolton Wanderers Football Club and his dedication to rebuilding both on and off the pitch has been commendable. He instilled a renewed sense of professionalism and purpose, and we are grateful for his significant contributions during his four and a half years at the helm.

“He has been a pleasure to work with and I personally thank him for his hard work and passion for this Club. He has created a tremendous legacy and will always be remembered for the successes he has brought. We wish him nothing but success in the future.

“The Board are committed to finding the right candidate to lead Bolton Wanderers forward.”

Evatt added: “I’ve absolutely loved my time here at Bolton Wanderers Football Club. Working with Sharon and Nick (Luckock) has been a pleasure, and I’ve been superbly backed along the way by my team of staff and the players.

“There comes a point in football when a change needs to happen and the last thing I want is to damage what we have all built together.

“I believe the Club is still well placed to achieve its goals this season, and I want to give the Board and players the best chance of doing that.

“I am very grateful for everybody’s support and to be the manager of this wonderful football club has been the greatest honour of my career. To our fans, thank you for the support you have shown me and my staff.

“Together we have created some very special memories and I will always be a fan of this amazing football club.”

Reading host the Trotters in their next home match on February 1, beating the Royals 5-2 in the reverse fixture.