JOHN McGinlay thought he had no-one to turn to when a family bereavement and sickness threatened his Gresley Rovers team's preparations for Saturday's FA Umbro Trophy clash with Bilston Town.

But while Super John has been back home in Fort Wiliam this week he has been content in the knowledge that the team he manages in the Dr Martens League has been in the capable hands of his old bosses - Bruce Rioch and Ian McNeill - the two men he respects most in football.

"My mum died two weeks ago and my dad's in hospital after suffering a heart attack," McGinlay explained.

"There was no way I could take training and just happened to mention it to Bruce. No more ado, he said he and Dixie would help out. They're taking the training and getting the lads ready for the game.

"I can't thank them enough. They are both top men and the boys are privileged to be working with them."

McGinlay, who became a Wanderers' legend in six glorious seasons, regards McNeill as the man who launched his career as a professional and Rioch - the manager who brought him to Bolton - will forever be referred to as "The Gaffer".