Darren Pratley played a massive part in the Swans rise into the Premier League in 2011 but he never kicked a ball in the Premier League for us as he left the club soon after promotion for a new chapter in his life in Bolton.

At the time Bolton were in the Premier League but that lasted just the one season before relegation and since then Pratley has been back in the Championship.

He should never be forgotten for his part in our rise and few who were there will ever forget the moment that shook the Liberty when he scored the third - and final goal - in our play off semi final win against Nottingham Forest in May 2011.

And today, the former Swan was appointed as captain of Bolton Wanderers for the forthcoming season after 117 appearances for the club

“Darren will be our captain this season,” Neil Lennon told bwfc.co.uk. “I think he’s the right age and he’s well respected in the dressing room by the players.

“He’s a consistent performer and he’s coming into his peak years. I think he’s ready for the responsibility.”

His appointment as captain comes less than a week after he signed a new deal with the club after summer links with the likes of Ipswich and QPR

“Obviously it was a big decision, the contract, but I feel like I’ve got a chance of playing,” he told The Bolton News.

“If I do well in pre-season I’ll have a chance, whereas before I wouldn’t.

“Before you’d have to wait until half way through the season to get going and then you’d be playing catch-up with everyone else.

“It’s been done for a while,” he said. “I knew before we broke up that I’d be staying at Bolton. I read stories, as you do, but just laughed at them.

“The gaffer had spoken to me and I knew I’d be coming back, but it’s nice to get that out of the way now.”

Photo: Action Images

johnjubal1958 added 09:16 - Jul 15 I for one was real disappointed to see Darren leave the club because when he had the ball he could make things happen. Darren was a great positional player too as he knew when to make those timely runs to receive the ball and create opportunities for us. With his knowledge and experience Bolton have chosen wisely the man who I believe will bring them promotion and success very quickly and I thank him for his efforts in his role when he was at our and further wish him all the best. Cheers DP!!!

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