Others ‘Can Profit’ As Bolton Wanderers Opponents Focus On Premier League Talent

Steven Schumacher believes Bolton Wanderers can profit from the extra attention being paid to in-form winger Amario Cozier-Duberry.

The manager is confident the space created by double-marking will allow other attacking players to flourish during the League One campaign.

Gale And Cissoko Ready To Capitalise

Cozier-Duberry, on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion, has quickly made an impact at the Toughsheet Community Stadium. His ability to draw defenders has forced opponents to change shape, as demonstrated by Leyton Orient’s switch to a back five in Saturday’s 1-1 draw.

That tactical adjustment created openings for Thierry Gale, who twice went close before being withdrawn late on, while Ibrahim Cissoko impressed with a lively cameo from the bench. Schumacher was pleased with the balance, suggesting that Wanderers’ wide threats are capable of exploiting any defensive focus on Cozier-Duberry.

“Amario has got great quality, we know that, but if people want to double and triple up marking him then it leaves space on the other side of the pitch,” Schumacher told The Bolton News. “Up until he came off at Leyton Orient, Thierry Gale was our most dangerous player.

“He had two big chances and got into good positions, and Ibrahim came on and also gave us an outlet. If they double up on Amario, we’ve got another really good player on the other side in Thierry, and another waiting to come on if needed.”

Schumacher also praised the way his side forced Orient into uncharacteristic tactics. The London club, usually known for their patient passing style, went more direct to manage Wanderers’ threats. The Bolton boss viewed that change as a compliment, insisting it showed how hard opponents must work to contain his side.

“It is a compliment to our team that they felt they had to do that,” he added. “They had players cramping up late on because of how much they’d worked. We always believed we’d get another chance, and Amario stepped up to help us get what we deserved.”

The point at Brisbane Road kept Wanderers well placed in the League One standings, and Schumacher is optimistic that his side will continue to develop ways of breaking down stubborn defences as the season progresses.

Site Opinion

Bigger attention on Cozier-Duberry is inevitable given his early-season performances, but Bolton look well stocked to take advantage. Gale’s pace and Cissoko’s energy give Schumacher multiple options on the flanks, ensuring Wanderers are not overly reliant on one player.

The tactical flexibility on show at Leyton Orient is another positive sign. If Bolton can consistently turn pressure into goals, the ability to stretch opponents across the pitch could prove decisive in their push for promotion.