By Mark Heys
March 8 2008

Kevin Davies says that he will understand if manager Gary Megson decides to leave him out of next week's UEFA Cup clash against Sporting Lisbon with the club having one eye on the Premier League game with relegation rivals Wigan Athletic a few days later.

Davies started Thursday's 1-1 draw at the Reebok Stadium in the first leg but appreciates that he may be sacrificed by the management for the return leg at the Estadio Jose Alvalado in order to remain fresh for the club's league commitments.

The 31-year old forward has missed all but one European tie for Bolton this season and he scored a crucial and memorable equaliser for the club away against Bayern Munich back in November.

Wanderers boss Megson has already stated he will pick a different team to the one which played last time out and Davies could be one to make way.

"I could understand it if he left me out at Lisbon. We'd all love to be involved - but the bigger picture for us is Wigan." said the bustling front man 

"Our position in the Premier League is not good and that's why the Wigan game is so vital for us. It will be huge."

Ironically Davies first league goal of the campaign came when Bolton drubbed Wigan 4-0 at the Reebok just before Christmas and it is a result which would be welcomed when the team go to the JJB Stadium a week tommorow.