Wanderers have added nine new scholars to their Academy ranks ahead of the upcoming campaign.

George Barlow, Harry Leigh, Conor Lewis, Jamie Grayson, Deashon Lawrence and Harley Irwin are among the new scholars.

The new intake also includes three new arrivals from Premier League Everton. Defensive pair Oliver Smith and Emile Oliver made the move to Bolton last season and versatile wideman Harrison Rice has now followed suit.

The youngsters have agreed two-year scholarships at Bolton and will now link up with Julian Darby’s Under-18 side for the upcoming EFL North West Youth Alliance season.

“We are really excited about this season’s new scholars,” said head of Academy Dave Gardiner. “They are a fantastic group of players who, most importantly, are great individuals with the desire to learn, both on and off the pitch.

“They are all technically gifted players with the physical profile to match. They have great potential, and we can’t wait to get started on the scholarship programme. 

“The group is made up of a number of local players, some who have been with us from a very early age.

“It’s exciting for all the Academy staff to see these players come through the Academy pathway and testament to all the hard work that has taken place in the department over the last few seasons.

“The group has also been strengthened with the successful recruitment of three additional players from Category 1 academies.

“In the last year we have really grown as an Academy. I am proud of every member of staff as we have changed the way we work and implemented new processes to align with the vision of the football club. The future is bright.”

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