Sport

Craig Dawson ‘disappointed’ not to finish Bolton Wanderers play-off job, but insists loan spell made him better

By John McDougall

Craig Dawson insisted he will always be grateful for the learning experience gained at Bolton Wanderers as he returned to parent club West Bromwich Albion.

The 22-year-old’s three-month loan expired following Wanderers’ draw with Cardiff City last weekend and the former Rochdale man will return to the Hawthorns.

Despite being disappointed at not finishing the season at the Reebok Stadium, the England under-21 international feels his development has come on leaps and bounds since his January move.

“It’s been a great learning curve and I’m extremely grateful to the manager for bringing me in and giving me this opportunity,” he told Bolton’s official website.

“I’ve loved my time at the club. When you’re playing regular football and winning games you can’t help but enjoy it.

“It’s a little disappointing that I’m unable to see the season out with Bolton, but I knew the terms of my loan before I came here.

“I feel like I have developed a lot here. Hopefully I can take that back to West Brom and continue to become a better a player.”

Dawson turned out 16 times for the Whites, scoring four goals and forming an impressive central defensive partnership with Zat Knight.

His form has been part of a Whites revival that has seen Dougie Freedman’s side climb to sixth in the Championship table.  

With Bolton 90 minutes away from securing a play-off spot, Dawson will not forget the support the Trotters faithful showed him during his three month spell at the club.  

“I’ve been made to feel extremely welcome by all the staff and players, and especially the fans,” explained the former Rochdale man.

“From my first game I feel like the fans really looked after me. They really got behind me and that was great to see.”

Bolton’s crucial final game is against Blackpool at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday.

Image courtesy of FATV, via YouTube, with thanks

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