Bolton Wanderers postpone Doncaster Rovers match due to concern over welfare for young players

Bolton Wanderers’ game with Doncaster Rovers on Tuesday has peen postponed due to concerns over the “impact on the welfare” of their players.

The League One club have been in administration since May and could only field three senior outfield players (Luke Murphy, Jason Lowe and James Weir) in Saturday’s 5-0 loss to Tranmere Rovers.

The club, who are awaiting the takeover by Football Ventures, have now confirmed the game has been postponed with manager Phil Parkinson raising his concerns with the Football League about the issue.

A statement read: “It is with real regret and a deepening sense of frustration that we have been forced to postpone tomorrow’s fixture against Doncaster Rovers.

“Whilst the threat of further EFL sanctions is obvious, nothing can be allowed to impact on the welfare of such a young group of players. With so many senior players injured or unavailable, the squad has performed heroically and deserves so much credit.

“But after consultation with the club’s medical staff, it is obvious that to call on them for another match without an adequate break would be detrimental to both their welfare and development which cannot be allowed.

“We were able to bring in reinforcements before the match against Coventry because the deal was so close to completion. Now, following recent events, the legal position of various parties has altered which means a delay in completion. In this situation, it is very difficult to attract available players to the club.

“I will be discussing the implications with the EFL but in the meantime, I would call on all parties involved with the acquisition of the club and hotel to end this intolerable delay and secure once and for all the future of Bolton Wanderers. Further details on reimbursement for any tickets sold for tomorrow’s game will follow.”