Jimmy Phillips to remain as Bolton caretaker boss until the end of the season

Jimmy Phillips has confirmed that he will be Bolton Wanderers’ caretaker manager for the rest of the season.

The 50-year-old was asked to take over first team responsibilities by Dean Holdsworth following Tuesday’s sacking of Neil Lennon.

Lennon had been in charge of the Trotters for two years but left the club stranded at the bottom of the Championship table after a chaotic season both on and off the pitch.

The club were formally taken over by the Sports Shield Consortium last week who have started to set about making changes at the club.

In an interview with BBC Manchester Phillips said “Obviously we’ve got a new consortium coming in, I think because of the nature of the club they’re having to take things very steadily and they will have a full business plan behind their actions.

“I don’t think it’s a case of whether I want to put my name forward (for the manager’s job) , I think they’ve got a plan and hopefully I will be part of their plans in the future.

“Whatever shape that takes, time will tell.”

Phillips made over 400 appearances for Bolton during his playing career and was head of the club’s academy set up this season.

Bolton are currently 11 points from safety. They face fellow strugglers Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Saturday with both sides in desperate need of a win.