BOLTON midfielder Kevin Nolan today called on his team-mates to keep Wanderers in the Premiership for the sake of Sam Allardyce ahead of tomorrow's vital six-pointer with Rovers at the Reebok.

Nolan has paid a glowing tribute to his boss on the eve of his club's biggest game of the season so far.

And he insists the only way to repay the 'gaffer' for the magnificent job he has done is by guaranteeing Wanderers' top-flight status.

"I just hope we can get the right results to keep us up because I think the manager deserves it," said Nolan.

"He's brought this club so far over the last couple of years it's unbelievable.

"When he first joined us I think we were eighth off the bottom in the First Division.

"But he then got us into the play-offs that year and then through to two semi-finals after that.

"And the year after he got us to the Play-Off final itself which we managed to win.

"So no Bolton fan in the world would dream of what he's done for us, especially this season.

"Even I didn't dream it would be this good but he's brought so many good players in, a lot of whom are World class or are going to be World class.

"So, hopefully, we'll give him what he deserves by keeping the club in the Premiership."

With Wanderers currently four points clear of Rovers at the foot of the table, Nolan knows a victory for the whites tomorrow would greatly enhance those survival chances.

But, whatever happens this weekend, the England Under 20 international insists it's more important to concentrate on the bigger picture.

"This is a massive game, without a doubt, but we've still got 11 games left and we've all got to remember that," said Nolan.

"So it won't be the result of this game which keeps us up, it will be the outcome of the next 11 matches.

"Obviously, Blackburn against Bolton is a big game anyway but this one is even bigger because of what's at stake.

"We are currently above them in the table and if we can win tomorrow then we'll go seven points clear.

"So I'm really forward to it."

And one battle Nolan is relishing in particular is a possible duel with veteran Welshman Mark Hughes in the centre of midfield.

"I've followed Mark Hughes since I was a little kid and when he was at Manchester United I used to think he was unbelievable there," added Nolan.

"It always used to be my worst nightmare when he used to come on against Liverpool because he always seemed to turn the game.

"But I really do hope he does play because that would mean a great battle.

"Whatever side Blackburn pick, however, will be strong because they've got so many great players."