Bogdan's Return: The Case for Adam Bogdan

Before his injury, Bogdan had been the unquestionable number one for Dougie Freedman, as he had been under previous manager Owen Coyle after taking the reins from fan favourite Jussi Jääskeläinen.

Our 2012 Supporters Player of the Year has recently become the subject of debate of Wanderers fans who felt he was culpable for goals conceded on more than one occasion.

Make no mistake; Bogdan has had to contend with perhaps the worst central defensive unit at Bolton in recent memory, the successful partnership of Ream and Mills was implemented after Bogdan’s injury.

Since Knight has been re-introduced into the back four, our defensive frailties have reared again (note Knight Vs Middlesbrough).

Bogdan is a raw goalkeeper of unquestionable talent; his shot stopping is superior to many goalkeepers in the league, as is that of Andy Lonergan.

What sets Bogdan apart from Lonergan is his footballing intelligence.

His decision making of when to stay and go is exemplary and sees him make numerous saves from one-on-one chances, perhaps his best attribute.

Bogdan’s errors come in his handling, particulary with low shots which he can frequently allow out of his grasp.

He has also struggled with crossing from deep areas but the introduction of Matt Mills should protect this as it has done for Lonergan as this is also a weakness in his game.

In regards to the weaknesses of Adam Bogdan, a first choice International goalkeeper, it is important to remember that he is only 26 and similar to Joe Hart at Manchester City, he could well of benefited from some time out of the team and be back to his best.

Stick with Bogdan and we may soon have a high level young international goalkeeper with a value that could benefit in the medium term, given our recent financial revelations.