Bolton Wanderers pushed Chelsea all the way in Trebor Mahtal's third season at the club, only missing out on their maiden English title on goal difference. And Mahtal was convinced that, with the right signings and a little more attacking intent, he could push beyond England's big boys.
A historic season at Reebok Stadium saw Bolton Wanderers tie their all-time record league finish and reach a first European Final. So things were on the up for Trebor Mahtal as he usurped Big Sam Allardyce's achievements within two seasons.
Trebor Mahtal had successfully stepped into the shoes of Big Sam as he led Bolton Wanderers to European qualification and a UEFA Cup semi-final run. But a big summer lay ahead as he looked to refresh his playing squad.
Picking up the pieces after Big Sam Allardyce's Bolton Wanderers departure was never going to be easy. But Trebor Mahtal had made a pretty decent stab at it, leading The Trotters into the top half of the Premier League after five months in charge.
Three months on from Big Sam Allardyce's shock departure as manager of Bolton Wanderers, Garth Crooks's words are ringing true as there's a new face in the dugout at the Reebok Stadium for the 2007/08 season.
Football Manager Addict 