Bolton Wanderers rescued Chris Basham from the McDonald's counter!

The Bolton News says the former Newcastle trainee drifted out of football after being released by the Magpies as a teenager. After a spell behind the counter at McDonald's, he was snapped up by Wanderers and has repaid the club's loyalty with a series of mature displays, including his full debut at Arsenal and against Manchester United.

But Megson has urged fans not to expect too much from Basham, who could be out-of-contract in the summer but is sure to be offered a new deal.

He said: "Twelve months ago he was on loan at Rochdale and they weren't playing him, but in terms of a footballer at Premiership level Chris has got a huge amount of work to do.

"But his enthusiasm was a big, big plus. He wants to get on and do well for the team."