Derby boss Paul Warne believes that League One will be “even tougher” next season after Wanderers’ play-off final loss to Oxford. Warne, who led Derby to a second-place finish, was a pundit for Sky Sports during the match, where Oxford secured a 2-0 victory at Wembley.
Warne expressed sympathy for Bolton’s manager, Ian Evatt, acknowledging his current pain but supporting his ability to rebuild and aim for promotion next season. Warne highlighted the strong competition next season, mentioning teams like Huddersfield, Birmingham, Rotherham, Wrexham, Stockport, and Charlton.
“It’s a tough time for Ian now, but he will recover, make some changes, and push for success again,” Warne said. “They’ve won many games this year and have a winning mentality. He will build another side and go for it next season.”
Curtis Davies, former Derby and Hull player, noted that Bolton lacked “energy and urgency” against Des Buckingham’s Oxford, especially after conceding. Davies suggested that the occasion might have affected Bolton, despite their previous experience at Wembley.
“They seemed unable to replicate their season-long performance,” Davies remarked. “It wasn’t complacency; they just weren’t good enough. Once Sheehan struggled to control the ball, their pace dropped. Ian will be disappointed with their ball use and speed. While Oxford excelled, Bolton’s performance fell short.”
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