Lee tells Bolton players to enjoy experience

SAMMY LEE has told the Bolton players to savour the special Stade Velodrome atmosphere tonight - and secure a place in the last 16 of the UEFA Cup.

Former European Cup holders Marseille would appear to hold the keys to the next stage with the scores locked at 0-0 from the first leg at the Reebok Stadium.

But assistant manager Lee is in no mood to lose to the French side for the second time in two years. He was part of Gerard Houllier’s backroom staff when Liverpool lost 3-2 on aggregate in the UEFA Cup after a 2-1 defeat away from home.

Lee said: “They are a very passionate crowd in Marseille - but that is something to enjoy rather than be fearful of.

“Marseille will be aware of our potential. The players have had a full briefing on what to expect.It has been a great achievement to get this far. The lads don’t want the journey to end here.

“They have gained experience - it’s been an education. They have become better players, and we have become a better team as a result.”

Bolton face a fixture pile-up should they get through, but Lee is not concerned about the possibility of a game every two or three days next month.

“The mere fact that we could have this congestion suggests we are doing something right, because we are still involved in a number of competitions. Long may that continue.”

Utility player Henrik Pedersen is set to make his first appearance for Bolton in four months. The 30-year-old Dane proved his fitness on Monday with a 45-minute run-out for the reserves, after recovering from an Achilles injury.

Pedersen could be on the bench - while El-Hadji Diouf, Ivan Campo and Khalilou Fadiga are all ruled out through injury.

Gary Speed looks set to retain his place in the team after an impressive display against West Ham in the FA Cup, while central defender Bruno N’Gotty could return to the side at the expense of Radhi Jaidi after being rested at the weekend.