Meaning:
The quote "Bolton are an established team in the Premiership these days and well respected by the other sides" by Mark Lawrenson, a former professional footballer and current sports broadcaster, reflects the standing of Bolton Wanderers Football Club within the English football landscape during a certain period. At the time when Lawrenson made this statement, Bolton Wanderers were a prominent team in the Premier League, the top tier of English football, and had earned the respect of their contemporaries through their performances and achievements.
Bolton Wanderers, based in Greater Manchester, have a rich history in English football. The club has experienced periods of success and has also faced challenging times. However, during the era in which Lawrenson made this statement, Bolton had firmly established themselves as a competitive force in the Premier League. The team's consistent presence in the top flight of English football and their ability to compete with the traditionally stronger clubs had garnered them respect from their peers.
Mark Lawrenson, as a football pundit and analyst, would have been well-versed in the strengths and reputations of various teams within the Premier League. His statement about Bolton being an established and respected team indicates that the club had earned recognition for their performances, style of play, and overall standing within the league. This acknowledgment from a knowledgeable and respected figure in the football world further reinforces the significance of Bolton's position at that time.
During the period when this quote was made, Bolton Wanderers were likely enjoying a spell of relative success, possibly achieving notable victories, securing high league finishes, or making an impact in cup competitions. Their ability to consistently compete at the highest level would have contributed to their status as an established team in the Premiership, as mentioned by Lawrenson.
Moreover, the respect earned by Bolton from other teams implies that they were viewed as a formidable and competitive opponent. This respect could have been a result of their style of play, their ability to challenge and defeat stronger teams, or their overall conduct and sportsmanship on and off the field. It is common for well-respected teams to be acknowledged not only for their results but also for the manner in which they approach the game and conduct themselves within the football community.
In conclusion, Mark Lawrenson's quote about Bolton Wanderers being an established and respected team in the Premiership reflects a specific period in the club's history when they were performing admirably and had gained recognition from their peers within the English football landscape. This statement highlights the impact of Bolton's achievements and standing within the Premier League during that time, as well as their reputation for being a team to be reckoned with.