Nolan blasts Bolton back into Euro race

Bolton 2 Fulham 1

The 23-year-old was again overlooked by England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson for the squad to face Uruguay in Wednesday’s friendly at Anfield. But he continues to prove invaluable to Bolton and after adding another entry to his burgeoning collection of spectacular goals, the clamour for Nolan’s inclusion will only increase.

However, Allardyce said: “I’m not surprised Kevin wasn’t included - I’m slightly disappointed. But I can understand it given the quality of players England has in that position, particularly Frank Lampard, who is one of the best in the world. You can understand that, but Kevin is 23 years old, he’s playing in midfield and he’s scoring double figures.”