Another poor display which resulted in boos and catcalls from the home fans does little to inspire confidence in the future at the Reebok. A point adds to the total of 40 which should see Bolton limp over the line and ensure Premier League football next season but how many of us will find the money to come and watch a performance that lacks even the basics of organisation or effort.

The clubs efforts to hold and reduce prices are welcome but that will count for nothing with the uninspiring performances on the pitch, which are so lacking in entertainment its just plain dull.  With such a thread bare squad and what appears a lack of talent and effort from too many new blood is undoubtedly needed. Gary Megson warns that he will have to take risks in the transfer market but his track record is far from inspiring.

No manager can get every transfer right, there are many factors which result in what appears a good buy turning into a poor one but Gary Megson’s record at Bolton is a threadbare as the current squad.

Of this years signings only Mark Davies has been an unqualified success although he is prone to injury which is worrying. The jury is still out on a number of the others such as Elmander, Riga and Smolarek who all seem lightweight and are struggling with the Premier Leagues robust physical nature.

And of the rest?  Muamba would be better if he could pass, shoot and every now and then control the ball, Shittu gave ample evidence why he only played at lower level before, Puygrenier has the mobility of your average walrus and can jump about as well and lastly Makukula has the strength that others lack but the control and skill of an arthritic drunk at closing time.  

Not really the choices that would convince me to trust him with the club’s war chest. Leaving that aside only thing I would ask is that do not, under any circumstances whatsoever, sign Joey Barton whose undoubted natural talent has contributed nothing but discord, violence on and off the field, red cards and shame to every club he has played for. A club is a reflection of its fans and if anyone at the Reebok feels Joey Barton has a place there then there is no hope for us and the undercurrent of discontent will turn into an exodus of the very lifeblood of the club, the fans.

Perhaps the problems at Bolton are the real reason behind Phil Gartside’s controversial two tier proposal for the Premier League. The recognition that at present Bolton have neither the funding, setup or staff to avoid relegation next year or the year after.  

The only good news is at least we were not last on Match of the Day again, the only problem being who wants to watch a performance like that against Sunderland again.