Dion Charles insists that Wanderers are “all in it together” following the statement of support for Ian Evatt.

Evatt came under fire after the defeat against local rivals Wigan but Sharon Brittan and the board remain behind the manager.

Charles says the view from the playing squad is exactly the same heading into the busy festive period, which kicks off against leaders Wycombe at Adams Park.

“We are all in it together. We are all wanting the same things. Our aim here is promotion, we can’t shy away from that,” he said.

“I understand that the fans are frustrated when we put in performances like that. Since I have been at this club, it has been progress year on year and we can still achieve that we want to achieve.

“There are going to be highs and lows along the way but we all need to have tunnel vision, wanting the same thing and working the right way.”

The Northern Irish international admitted that the Wigan result, and the manner of the performance, were tough to take.

“It has been sitting with us all week in training,” he added. “We had a meeting on Tuesday, all the boys and the staff.

“We told a few home truths and the only way we can put it right now is by performing on Friday. We have had a good week training.

“It is tough to lose a game in the manner we did, I can understand why so many people are disappointed with the performance. But it is football, we have a chance to put it right on Friday.

“We asked (why it happened) between ourselves, we are not sure what it is. We have got to keep working hard on the training pitch and try to put things right.”

Charles is approaching three years with the Whites and knows that a level of pressure comes with playing for the club.

It is something the forward is relishing and not shying away from heading into an important block of games.

“Coming and playing for a club like Bolton Wanderers, there is that added expectation. But that is why we are in the industry and the game,” he declared.

“We want to play in these big games and represent a club like this one. (Wigan) was really difficult to take but we have to park it and put things right on Friday.”

Charles says the squad are ready for a tough test against the Chairboys and determined to show their true colours.

“It is going to be a good test for us. It is probably one of the better games to show everyone our true character,” he continued.

“While you are playing for this club, every game is a must-win. You don’t go into a game to play for a draw and certainly not to lose.

“But that is why we all love football, it can be a mystery at times. We all have to stick together on this journey.

“Since I have been at this club, there has been progress year on year. There have been highs and lows but we are all pulling in the same direction.”