Whitlow returns to Bolton line-up

Veteran defender Mike Whitlow returned to the Bolton side for the first time in fourth months today for the crucial match against Middlesbrough.

He replaced Florent Laville, who was suspended for the final game of the season after being sent off in the draw with Arsenal.

Whitlow partnered captain Gudni Bergsson at the back in the 37-year-old Icelandic international’s last game for the club before retirement.

Bolton knew victory would preserve their top-flight status unless West Ham went goal crazy at Birmingham.

Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren made three changes to the side that defeated Tottenham in their last outing.

Defender Chris Riggott and striker Massimo Maccarone replaced Ugo Ehiogu and Szilard Nemeth, who are suffering from knee and hamstring injuries.

Stuart Parnaby was also drafted in at the back in preference to Robbie Stockdale while former Bolton striker Michael Ricketts was on the bench.