NATHAN Baxter wants to play his way to a new contract with Bolton Wanderers.
The goalkeeper, who retuned to the starting line-up for the first time in 11 league games in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat against Stockport County, comes to the end of a two-year deal in the summer.
Speculation over Baxter’s future has been rife, particularly after Luke Southwood continued to be preferred in goal after Steven Schumacher’s appointment as head coach.
But speaking to The Bolton News after his comeback against Stockport, Baxter has stated his desire to stay beyond his second season with the club.
“I have not been communicated by the club in any way,” he said. “But to be fair, I think it's just a case of let's try and focus on each game as it comes. I do get lots of messages saying, ‘Why didn't you sign a contract?’ But that hasn’t been the case.
“I love it at this football club. I absolutely love it here. I think me being put on the bench was a selection issue, towards the end of Ian Evert's reign.
“But it was nothing to do with a contract. I absolutely love it here. I love living up here.
“I bought a house up here. I love this area. I love playing in front of these supporters.
“Today was, like I say, the first five minutes. It was special being back on that pitch. Although I played for Hull City in the Championship, it's not like playing here.
“The supporters are brilliant. Last season was the most enjoyable season I've ever had in football. I loved every second of it, at least until the last game.
“I love it here. I want to be here. And I want everyone to know that.”
Baxter has played 65 games for Bolton since signing on a free transfer in the summer of 2023.
The 26-year-old insists that despite dropping into seventh spot at the weekend, the prospect of promotion remains strong.
“All of us want to be in the Championship,” he said. “I've got no doubt that with the situation we're in now and the positivity around the place that I want to be playing in the Championship next season. That's my aim.
“That's my goal. That's what gets me out of bed every day. Hopefully, we will do that.”
Wanderers dropped down to seventh spot with defeat against Stockport County on Saturday, and Baxter admitted the performance levels had dipped after a good run of form.
“It’s very frustrating,” he said. “Obviously, we want to win those type of games. They're obviously a direct rival for us.
“So, yeah, just a real disappointment. I don't think there's anything more to say. We're obviously gutted in that.”
Meanwhile, Everton have confirmed that they will play an Under-21 game against Bolton’s B Team next Sunday in what will be their second test game in their newly built stadium at Bramley Dock.
A crowd of 25,000 has been selected via ballot, with the game being used to help the new venue get a safety certificate from the local council.
Wanderers are expected to give Ricardo Santos, Kyle Dempsey and Kion Etete some game time as they return from injury.
