DECLAN John will be in contention to play in Friday night’s game at Sheffield Wednesday.

The Welsh wingback was left out of the squad for the 2-0 home defeat against Ipswich Town but is in Ian Evatt’s thoughts for Hillsborough.

Gethin Jones was used on the left side of the defence on Saturday in what Evatt explained had been a tactical decision, based on opposition strengths.

Randell Williams was also preferred as an option on the bench, based on the fact he could also fill-in on the right, if needed.

Evatt watched his side struggle in their first home defeat since October with young loanees Luke Mbete and Shola Shoretire feeling the strain against a canny and physical Ipswich side.

“Every team will be picked on merit, those players do not ‘have’ to play,” he said of his plans for Sheffield Wednesday.

“We felt that was the best option for Ipswich with what we had available.

“Declan has done great since he came back in but the way that Wes Burns plays and how offset they are, it just wouldn’t have suited him.

“Then with substitutes and benches you try to balance who can give you more, to play both sides, and Randell does that over Dec. It’s nothing personal, he will be back involved and he has done well for us.”

Wanderers could welcome back MJ Williams and George Johnston to the squad for the trip to South Yorkshire.

Williams made the last of his 27 appearances this season in January during the 1-0 win against Forest Green, undergoing minor surgery on his knee in February to clear some debris from the joint.

Johnston damaged his ankle in the win at Charlton in February but avoided surgery and has recently returned to full training.

Both players were seen warming up before Saturday’s game against Ipswich.

SUBSCRIBE now to The Bolton News for unlimited articles, lighter advertising, reader offers and much, much more. Click here to find out how to help trusted local journalism.

Social, newsletters, subscriptions and getting in touch...

You can follow the Bolton News on social media, by joining us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

We also have dedicated Facebook groups on Crime & Court, Traffic & Travel, Nostalgia and our Camera Club page

If you want to make sure you don't miss the most important news stories every day, sign up to one of our free e-mail newsletters 

Gain unlimited access to the Bolton News website with a premium digital subscription - we are running a £2 for two months special offer

Or if you want the Bolton News newspaper delivered to your door, get in touch with our home delivery team or call us on 0800 953 0227

Finally, have you got a story for us? If so, contact us at newsdesk@theboltonnews.co.uk or by using our online contribution form