Evatt criticises abuse despite better Bolton form

Ian Evatt was backed by Bolton Wanderers' board despite their poor start to the season

Bolton Wanderers boss Ian Evatt has criticised some fans who have sent abuse to his players and 12-year-old son.

Evatt's side have been under pressure after a poor start to their League One campaign but Wanderers have won their past two league games, scoring seven goals in the process.

Some of the abuse received came following their 5-2 win over Reading and Saturday's 2-0 win at Crawley Town, Evatt said.

"Football is a difficult place and industry because it is so subjective. Everybody has opinions and is entitled to them," he told BBC Radio Manchester.

"Critique is a part of the game that we have chosen to be in. When it sticks within those boundaries I'm all for it

"But when it crosses the line and becomes personal - I've had my 12-year-old son attacked in the past few weeks, there's other issues in the playing squad - people must remember the players, the staff, managers, we have our own mental health and wellbeing issues as well."

Evatt previously said he received support by the club's board following a poor start to the season which say them lose three times in succession, including a chastening 4-0 home loss to Huddersfield Town.

But their upturn in form has lifted them from 21st to 14th and Evatt says the abuse he has received suggests an underlying problem in football in general.

"I've just had a report from the PFA this morning - there isn't names behind it but a lot of it is about mental health and wellbeing," he added.

"That is deteriorating within football and is becoming an issue so the more we can do for the greater good the better."