Not Taking the White Shirt Off: Matt Mills

After months of speculation about interest from Leeds United, Matt Mills has reportedly stated his desire to stay at the Reebok. After his £2m move from Leicester City last year Mills featured 16 times in the league. He appeared in Owen Coyle’s early plans partnering Zat Knight until a long term thy injury sidelined him in December. Despite regaining fitness during the back end of last season Mills never regained his starting spot due to Craig Dawson’s arrival on loan. Mills has found himself out-of-favour at the Reebok with Bolton reportedly welcoming bids for the player.

It has been rumoured since late May that Leeds United manager Brian McDermott wants to be re-united with his former Reading captain but Bolton Wanderers have not received any formal bids. Reportedly £1m would be enough to gain his services although his wages would be a stumbling block.

With pre-season training underway Mills is looking likely to stay. In an interview with the Bolton Evening News manager Dougie Freedman has reportedly said,

''There has been plenty written about Matt Mills but we have had nothing as we speak…I have spoken to him and he’s very comfortable fighting for his position in the team.'’

Is this good news that Mills is staying? Although he’s had previous championship experience I don’t think that he has the quality to be a first team regular and may find himself on the fringes this year. Dougie Freedman’s willingness to sell him also indicates this. Does Mills’s exit close the door to Craig Dawson’s possible return?

It is looking likely that the England u21 international will feature in Steve Clarke’s plans this year at the Hawthorns. Hopefully if Mills stays injury free he can prove to us why Owen Coyle paid £2m for him a year ago.