Ricketts positive about Blackburn derby

Bolton defender Sam Ricketts insists pride will be at stake when they face their neighbors and is certain his side will finish the season in the top-flight’s top 10.

Ricetts, confident about his side’s form, however agrees it is crucial that his side rise above their two back-to-back defeats and bounce back to win their bragging rights against local rivals Blackburn at the Reebok Stadium.

He said: “We are more than capable of finishing in the top half. We have had a hard run of games and our performances deserved more than what we actually achieved.

“It’s time now to get those extra points and to start climbing the table. If we put a couple of back-to-back wins together then people will see us fly up the table.”

“Generally this season we have played well in the league apart from the game at Villa Park.

“It was one of those games where all of the outfield players had an off day and we need to write it off.”

“But we can only do that by putting in a good performance and hopefully getting a win against Blackburn.”

Ricketts insists pride will be at stake when they face their neighbors and former manager Sam Allardyce.

The Blackburn boss led the side into the UEFA Cup and also to the League Cup final during a successful eight-year spell in charge.

Since his move from Hull City in the summer, Ricketts has featured in every game for the Wanderers. The Wales international is determined to keep that run going with his side in the top 10 and said: “All derbies are big games and its bragging rights, the players and fans feel for that as much as anything.

“You always want to win in general but the fact that it is a derby does add something to the game.”

Bolton Wanderers, who currently sit just one point above the drop zone, face Blackburn Rovers in the Premier League game knowing they could do with a victory to stay clear of from the base three.