Bolton sign Fernandes

Bolton have signed French midfielder Fabrice Fernandes just hours after the deal looked to have collapsed.

The 25-year-old was released by Southampton despite having a year to run on his contract and joins Bolton on a free transfer.

Despite agent Willie McKay earlier claiming Bolton chairman Phil Gartside had “pulled the plug on the deal”, Fernandes has now signed a one-year contract at the Reebok Stadium.

Bolton boss Sam Allardyce told www.bwfc.co.uk: “Fabrice will add depth to our side and being a left-sided player he is a rare commodity in the modern game.

“Once I heard that he wasn’t affiliated to a club, I moved quickly to bring him in.

“Fabrice is a high-energy player who knows the Premiership inside out. He has a sweet left foot and an abundance of skill, which will complement our talented squad.”