Bolton's potential helped persuade Freedman to leave Crystal Palace

Dougie Freedman has explained his reasons for leaving his post as Crystal Palace manager to take the reins at Bolton.

The 38-year old took over at the Reebok Stadium last week and admits that he felt the long-term potential of the Trotters is much greater than that of Palace.

"It was a decision I made for the long game," Freedman said in the wake of his new clubs los to Middlesbrough on the weekend.

"I've got a long-game strategy where I feel this club will give me the tools that will get us to the Premier League.

"Crystal Palace have been fantastic for me. I was there as a player and as a manager and I've got a real bond with the fans.

"I feel that I owed this opportunity to myself and my family. It's not really what they (Palace) are lacking, it's what Bolton have got.

"I don't feel embarrassed or ashamed to say that promotion is the key to the season."

Bolton currently sit 18th in England's 24-team second tier competition with just 15 points from 13 outings.

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