Macca's key role in Campo move

The England and former Liverpool star, who shattered Wanderers' dreams of glory in the 1995 Coca-Cola Cup Final - urged the big Spanish defender to come to Bolton.

"He spoke very highly of Bolton," Campo confirmed. "I had a chat with him about the opportunity to play in the Premier League and he told me I should take it."

Speaking through an interpreter in his first interview since joining Wanderers on a season-long loan from the Spanish giants, Campo eased the fans' fears that he was a reluctant Reebok recruit.

"I am fully committed to Bolton Wanderers and the public," he stressed. "Bolton is a club with big potential and, fingers crossed, will get somehere in the league.

"Everyone knows that Real Madrid is such a big club but with the players here and the ambition of the club I am confident I can play very well for Bolton and achieve many things here."

Sam Allardyce landed Campo at the second attempt after protracted negotiations, having failed in a bid to sign him on loan last season when Real Madrid were in the middle of an injury criss.

The curly-haired Spaniard explained: "There were offers coming in from other clubs at the time and that, plus the fact that Real Madrid would not let me leave, meant I had to stay in Spain.

"I had other offers this time - some in Spain, some in England - but one of the reasons I came here to Bolton was Sam Allardyce. When I spoke to him he persuaded me to join the club because of its ambition. The club has treated me very well."

Wanderers are delighted that McManaman, who scored both Liverpool goals in the 2-1 League Cup triumph at Wembley, helped Campo make up his mind.

Assistant manger Phil Brown said: "I know Steve quite well and he speaks very highly of this place.

"He knows what it is like and has seen the progress Bolton has made over the last 10 years.

"It's nice to know that someone out there is singing the praises of Bolton Wanderers."