Bolton skipper Nolan accepts apology from Meite after Old Trafford outburst

Nolan, whose team-mates were 'distraught' at Meite's half-time rebellion with Manchester United 2-0 up, claimed his return to the squad would boost third-bottom Bolton's desperate fight for survival.

But manager Gary Megson, who made 27-year-old Meite train with the kids, warned that he still faces a tough job to force his way into the side for Bolton's last four vital matches.

And his advisers are searching for a new club after Meite, who cost £1million from Marseille two years ago, turned down loan moves to Championship outfits Hull and Ipswich.

Meite trained with the seniors on Thursday for the first time since his strike a month ago and Nolan, whose side are at Middlesbrough tomorrow (sat), said: 'We've had a bit of banter with Abu.

'He's been fantastic since he's come here, so it was a shame what happened. The lads were distraught, but the players never banished him, we all stayed friends. We still said hello.

'He's probably been badly advised. But he's got a heart of gold and it was great that he wanted to fight for Bolton. I'm delighted he's back with us, all the lads are - he's given us a lift.'

Megson confirmed: 'He's apologised to the senior players. But I told him it doesn't follow that he'll be in the team. Andy O'Brien has been exceptional and we've been delighted with Gary Cahill.'

Megson insisted that striker Kevin Davies, banned for two matches, will play in the final two - against Sunderland and Chelsea - despite X-rays showing three fractures in his injured left hand.

Davies, who also dislocated a finger against West Ham, is ready to wear a cast if necessary. Megson said: 'He's got a problem with the hand but he will be OK when he comes back from suspension.'