David Wheater has become the latest departure from the stricken ship that is Bolton Wanderers. After training with us for part of the summer, as well as exploring options from other clubs, he has signed for League Two side Oldham Athletic, with the Latics officially confirming the deal this evening.
It’s a departure which hurts in a way, which I’ve not felt about many outgoings in recent times. Wheater had been with us since 2011, a link to more innocent days in the Premier League, and in the last three seasons, had really cemented his status, being a key member of the promotion winning side, with the type of tanked-up celebrations that create cult heroes. It should be pointed out that his contract expired last season, but he was still around the training ground over the summer.
He would have been a good player to have around this season, a centre-back with experience, and still good enough for third-tier football. While I don’t know him, it seemed he wanted to stick around, hoping that the club would get its act together so he could continue playing for us. But with just two days before we are meant to field a team at Adams Park, and with no takeover yet completed, he has decided he can’t wait, and has even dropped a division to get a wage and a game.
So it’s a farewell and a thank you to David Wheater, but it could cast a light on the state Wanderers is in as a club.