Bolton Wanderers have announced that Stephen Crainey will join the club as assistant manager alongside Peter Atherton, according to club media.
The Scotsman has made a notable move after departing from his previous position under Shaun Maloney at Wigan Athletic. However, Crainey has strong connections with Wanderers’ manager, having been former teammates at Blackpool. Additionally, he has worked alongside current goalkeeping coach Matt Gilks.
Peter Atherton, who has been assistant manager since joining the club with Ian Evatt in 2020, will continue in his role.
Crainey’s most notable stint in management came during the 2021/22 season when he took temporary charge of Fleetwood Town. In his second game as interim manager, the former defender faced Ian Evatt’s Bolton Wanderers in an EFL Trophy fixture, resulting in a 1-0 victory for Fleetwood. Initially appointed on a caretaker basis, the now-43-year-old continued in the role until the end of the season. Fleetwood Town narrowly avoided relegation that campaign, surviving on goal difference. Afterward, Crainey returned to his role as under-23 manager before taking the under-21 job at Wigan Athletic.
The appointment of the former Scottish international marks the first step in Sharon Britton’s plan to achieve promotion for Bolton Wanderers. The club finished third last season but lost to Oxford United in the play-off final at Wembley. A slight downturn towards the end of the season saw them lose ground to both Portsmouth and Derby County, making their journey to Wembley necessary.
Speaking to club media, Wanderers boss Ian Evatt explained his decision to bring in Stephen Crainey:
“We’ve had discussions about taking a more holistic approach to our staff and addressing the skill set we feel we’re lacking. Stephen, whom I’ve known for a long time, can provide that.
“He’s a strong character with a deep understanding of what it takes to win. His addition to the staff will be extremely beneficial, so I believe this appointment is crucial for us.”
Stephen Crainey brings proven coaching experience to the table and represents a valuable asset for Ian Evatt to leverage. Bolton Wanderers are dedicated to developing their younger players while aiming for success in Championship football, and Crainey’s experience is expected to contribute significantly in these areas.
Experience holds immense value in this division, particularly in management roles. Evatt has faced criticism for perceived stubbornness, and introducing a fresh perspective and approach could benefit Bolton Wanderers moving forward.
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