THE lure of Burnden Park proved too strong for an exiled Wanderers fan currently working as a money trader in the Big Apple.

Mark Davies, 34, was due in from New York today in time for the last match at Burnden.

Former Bolton School pupil Mark has been in the States for four years. After leaving school he worked at a local accounting firm before moving to London in 1993.

From there Mark moved to New York but he has always kept in touch with events at Burnden despite being 3,000 miles away.

He said: "I grew up watching football at Burnden Park and as far as I am aware my cousin Simon Alvinson and I are on the TV footage of Frank Worthington's famous goal against Ipswich.

"The Championship season has been a record breaker and there could not have been a better way to leave Burnden. Even winning the FA Cup would not have been better.

"Looking on the positive side, we are moving on and up to better things. The events of the season will ensure a good transition to the Premiership and the new ground.

"I can't wait for the Charlton game and am very excited about the prospect."

Mark will enjoy a pint with his father James and a few friends before going to the game tonight.

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