By Mark Heys
October 25 2007

Bolton Wanderers Football Club have confirmed that the much travelled Gary Megson will be their 18th post war manager after leaving struggling Championship side Leicester City just twenty four hours ago.

Manchester-born Megson replaces Sammy Lee in charge at the Reebok Stadium and he will sign a two and a half year contract beginning with immediate effect.

Megson will take charge of Sunday's Premier League clash against Aston Villa and will be present for tonight's UEFA Cup tie against SC Braga.

Speaking of the appointment Bolton chairman Phil Gartside told the Wanderers official website that Megson has what it takes to help Bolton out of their current troubles.

"We have been able to interview a number of quality candidates and have taken into consideration all the factors which we consider applicable for the post and, after due consideration, decided to offer the post to Gary Megson.

"We feel Gary is the right man to take Bolton Wanderers forward. I have paid particular attention to his career and he has demonstrated to me that he is prepared to roll his sleeves up and has the right temperament for a battle, which this season is undoubtedly going to be.

"We have made decisive decisions over the past few weeks and this is one of them. It is not about me, Gary Megson or any other individual, it is all about Bolton Wanderers surviving in the Premier League.

"We have to be fully-focussed on the task ahead to make sure we achieve immediate success. I have spoken to the staff and the players and we are all committed to get behind Gary and turn our fortunes around."

Megson began his managerial career at Norwich City twelve years ago and has since had spells in the hot seat at Blackpool, Stockport County, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion, Nottingham Forest and Leicester.

It is not yet known who will assist Megson, it could be that Frank Burrows and former Wanderers defender Gerry Taggart follow him from Leicester but then Megson may opt to keep the current coaching staff of Archie Knox, Ricky Sbragia and Jimmy Phillips.