Bolton Wanderers manager remains optimistic regarding their prospects for promotion.

Ian Evatt had a straightforward response to those discounting his team’s automatic promotion aspirations following Saturday’s disappointing 3-3 draw against Charlton: “We’re still in the game!”

As the season enters its final third, Wanderers find themselves trailing the top two by three points. However, they still possess games in hand on both Derby County and Portsmouth, which could prove crucial.

During a recent stretch, the Whites have won just one of their last four matches, drawing the remaining three. This challenging period has coincided with significant absences due to injury, including key players like Ricardo Santos, Dion Charles, and Nathan Baxter.

Evatt remains steadfast in his belief that his team will be significantly stronger when everyone is available – and he acknowledges the players who have filled in during a demanding February deserve recognition for their undefeated streak.

“I am inherently optimistic, and there are few teams across the country that could sustain the absence of key players like we have and still manage to achieve consistent results,” Evatt conveyed to The Bolton.Certainly, winning home games is crucial, especially as we approach the crucial stage of the season where victories become imperative. However, it’s essential to recognize that there is still a significant amount of football left to be played.

“There’s still a long road ahead, and our destiny remains firmly in our own hands. Considering the challenges we’ve faced, I’m pleased and proud of our position, and we’ll continue striving to move forward.”

Following an early lead loss, Wanderers exhibited defensive lapses, requiring two comebacks to secure a point against Charlton.

When asked about his concerns regarding the team’s defensive performance, Evatt acknowledged the absence of regular goalkeeper Baxter and captain Santos, suggesting that such changes inevitably disrupt the team.

“Those were isolated incidents; we weren’t consistently under pressure or being carved open,” Evatt remarked regarding the defensive errors.

“With changes and disruptions in the team due to the absence of our captain and goalkeeper, it’s natural for some players to be affected. However, the replacements have performed admirably given the circumstances.”

“We’re not here to dwell on setbacks. Despite the challenges, we’ll maintain our unity and continue moving forward. There’s still a long journey ahead, and we’re far from finished.”

Paris Maghoma’s second-half display, including an impressive goal, stood out. Although he narrowly missed a chance to seal victory with another attempt, Evatt expressed satisfaction with Maghoma’s resurgence.

“Paris is a talented player, and we’ve been working on adding goals and assists to his game,” Evatt commented. “He possesses all the necessary qualities but needs to enhance his consistency. Despite his frustration over the missed opportunity, he showcased his abilities with a commendable performance.”