Allardyce looking to strenghten squad

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce is still aiming to bring in a couple of new players before the transfer window closes on Friday.

Alllardyce’s need for new recruits was emphasised tonight when they lost 2-1 at home to Everton.

The Bolton boss broke off from his preparations for the game to try and seal a deal for Valencia striker Salva Ballesta.

Allardyce is now quietly confident he can bring Ballesta on loan until the end of the season – and maybe one other.

“We have a chance with Salva,” said Allardyce. “It’s not certain but I have pushed hard most of the day and made progress.

“I have made some progress with some others as well but not as far as that one.”

Bolton could have been two goals ahead before midfielder Steve Watson grabbed a brace for Everton.

Transfer-listed Michael Ricketts and Ivan Campo both squandered good opportunities.

It proved costly and Bolton are facing a relegation scrap after another home defeat.

Gudni Bergsson scored from close range deep in stoppage time but by then Everton were out of reach.

Allardyce said: “After Everton’s first goal you could see the confidence drain out of our team.

“There was little we could do about that strike but we should have done something about the second goal.

“We have 13 games left and we need to pick up at least one point a game if we are to survive.”

Everton, in contrast, are eyeing Europe after their first away win since November.

Assistant manager Alan Irvine said: “We are safe now and that was our first target. We can build on that now and set new ones.

“We were fairly comfortable most of the game and should have killed it off earlier.

“But we have not had the luxury of a two-goal lead very often this season.”