The Whites have left it late in the January transfer window, and as the last week ticks over fans are yet to see a single incoming deal.
The need for new recruits took an urgent turn after Tuesday night’s 1-0 win against Cheltenham Town with Randell Williams ruled out for a month and news that George Thomason will be suspended for the next two league games after picking up a 10th booking of the season.
Kyle Dempsey has also picked up a muscular ailment that may keep him out of Brunton Park, leaving Wanderers with only 16 senior players from which to select.
Blackburn Rovers striker Niall Ennis has been on the radar for much of the month; a promotion winner with Plymouth Argyle, he is said to have agreed to join on loan for the remainder of the season.
However, Evatt has hinted at new changes in the transfer market, including the possibility of surprise and “exciting” agreements that were not planned weeks ago.
The Bolton manager has already broadened his search for additional players, with up to three new recruits being sought. And, after a gruelling month of fixtures, he believes that bringing in the proper players now will be extremely useful to the promotion campaign.
I believe we need to look at it now, talk about it, and make the best decisions for the club and the playing squad,” he told The Bolton News. “These injuries aren’t helping, and we need to shake things up a little bit, bring some new energy and blood into the group.
“We’re not talking about large numbers here, just two or three significant additions to help us get back on track.
“Psychologically it is important for everybody, not just for the players, me and the board, but for the fans as well.
“They love to see new players and hopefully that can lift everyone. The ones we are looking at will certainly do that and kick us on again.”
Carlos Mendes Gomes will be back in the UK today after international duty at the African Cup of Nations with Guinea Bissau.
He featured in all three group games despite suffering some mild illness during his time in the Ivory Coast, so it is hoped he will be fit enough to feature in some capacity when Wanderers head to Carlisle United this weekend.
Evatt also feels that holding on for a win against Cheltenham will give his team a mental lift, after disappointment in their previous away game at Leyton Orient.
“I think it is a result which will do them the world of good,” he said. “Sometimes you have to find a way to win, and it won’t always be playing attractive, flowing football as we’d like to.
“Cheltenham made it very difficult for us but we held on to the points and that is all that matters.
“We’re still in a great position, still above that two points per game, and in a good place.”
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