Bolton fans might argue until they’re blue in the face that Kevin Davies is just a robust and physical striker. However, the facts are plain and simple; the striker has collected twelve yellow cards this season, bettering last season’s tally by two (although he did also pick up a red last term). Therefore, it’s a little churlish to start bemoaning your two-game suspension when you play such an ‘in-your-face’ style of football that’s always running the risk of being cautioned. The Independent report that Gary Megson is just ever-so-slightly concerned that his striker is missing for crunch games at Middlesbrough and Tottenham.

Megson went in pursuit of Peter Walton, hoping he could get the referee to rescind the yellow card even though he knew it was beyond the official’s powers. It was a manifestation of desperation and forlorn hope. “It’s a big blow,” the Bolton manager conceded.

Davies, whose importance to the dressing room means that he will travel to Teesside and London despite his ban, felt he had played the ball when he was cautioned for a foul on John Pantsil. “I thought it was a harsh booking,” he said. “In fact, I’m devastated by it. But someone else can step in now and be the hero. I hope it will be a sort of blessing in disguise.”

Have Bolton got somebody else who can ruffle the feathers of opposition defenders, stick their elbow in when it matters and generally make a nuisance of themselves? I suppose there’s always El Hadji Diouf, although it’s clear the Trotters will have to change their playing style with Davies watching from the sidelines.

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