Allardyce defends ‘Dad’s Army’ recruitment drive

BOLTON boss Sam Allardyce has defended his “Dad’s Army” recruitment drive.

Allardyce added 36-year-old Spanish defender Fernando Hierro to his squad today following the earlier acquisitions of Les Ferdinand and Gary Speed, 37 and 34 respectively, as he continues preparations for Bolton’s fourth consecutive season in the top flight.

Michael Bridges and 22-year-old Israeli Tal Ben Haim have also arrived at the Reebok Stadium but it is the more aged members of Allardyce’s squad that are giving some Trotters supporters cause for concern.

But with no cash at his disposal despite Bolton’s impressive eighth-place finish last term, Allardyce does not know what else he can do.

“People are bound to say ‘look at the age’ but it’s something I just haven’t been able to avoid,” he said.

“I realise most of these guys won’t be able to play three games a week but that isn’t what I am looking for. I am looking for the most quality I can get with the money I have available.”