Bolton take a risk with Anelka
Posted by DavidM in Bolton, Nicolas Anelka | 25 August 2006
Allardyce may have a reputation of getting the best out of awkward or wayward stars but he'll have his work cut out with his latest signing.
Nicolas Anelka has joined Bolton Wanderers from Fenerbahce for £8m. Anelka is still only 27 but is now on his seventh club - having already played in the premiership for Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City.
He is still a very talented player although he's never recreated his Arsenal highs. The problem with Anelka is more his off-field temperament and the influence of his relatives. I think it's his brother who manages him and was rumoured to have egged him on to leave at least one previous club.
If Anelka behaves true to form big Sam will get one or maybe two good seasons out of him, then we'll hear he's unsettled and he'll move on again.
However, if Allardyce can weave his magic and keep Anelka focused on the game and get him back to somewhere near his best then maybe that £8m isn't so expensive.
