Key Points
- · Kyle Dempsey describes his current comeback at Bolton Wanderers as "different" from previous recovery attempts.
- · Dempsey suffered injuries that disrupted his 2024/25 season and delayed the start of his 2025/26 campaign.
- · The midfielder signed a contract extension in June 2023, keeping him at Bolton until 2026.
- · He played a pivotal role in Bolton’s recent successes including scoring the opening goal in the 2023 EFL Trophy final victory at Wembley.
- · Dempsey acknowledges frustrations earlier in his Bolton career but remains positive and determined to prove himself.
- · He credits the club’s project, coaching staff, and fans for his motivation and commitment.
- · Dempsey aims to help Bolton secure automatic promotion after falling just short last season.
- · The player’s style is described as a goal-scoring midfielder who participates actively in build-up play.
- · Prior to joining Bolton, Dempsey had notable spells at Carlisle United, Huddersfield Town, Fleetwood Town, and Gillingham.
- · His personal challenges include a legal issue in 2023, with a suspended sentence and community service following an assault conviction.
What makes Kyle Dempsey’s current comeback at Bolton Wanderers ‘different’?
Kyle Dempsey has been through comeback challenges before but believes this time the outcome will be different. As reported by James Dawson of The Bolton News, Dempsey said: “It’s a different type of comeback this time around, not just physically but mentally as well. I’m more determined and focused to show what I’m really capable of”.
The midfielder’s previous injury setbacks, especially during the 2024/25 campaign, delayed his progress, but he remains hopeful about returning to his best form in the ongoing season. His experience and maturity now give him a positive outlook on the process ahead.
What has Kyle Dempsey’s journey at Bolton Wanderers been like so far?
Dempsey joined Bolton Wanderers in January 2022 from Gillingham and quickly became a key figure in the squad. In the 2022/23 season, he made 47 appearances in all competitions and delivered impactful performances, including scoring six goals and providing three assists, playing a crucial part in Bolton reaching the League One play-offs.
A highlight of his Bolton career came in April 2023 when he scored the opening goal in Bolton’s 4-0 EFL Trophy final win against Plymouth Argyle at Wembley.
In June 2023, he signed a new long-term contract until 2026, underlining his importance to manager Ian Evatt's squad and the club’s project.
How does Kyle Dempsey describe his playing style and role at Bolton?
Dempsey describes himself as a “goal-scoring midfielder” who likes to receive the ball around the halfway line and drive forward to bring others into play. He operates in versatile midfield roles, ranging from a deeper-lying number eight to a number 10 behind the front two, contributing both offensively and in build-up phases.
His dynamic performances and experience have made him a vital cog in the Wanderers' midfield machinery.
What are Kyle Dempsey’s aspirations for the current season with Bolton?
Having experienced the disappointment of falling just short of promotion in the previous season, Dempsey’s focus is now firmly on achieving automatic promotion. He acknowledges the hunger and determination within the squad and the support from the fans.
As quoted by Dawson in The Bolton News, Dempsey expressed: “We all have the same goal of wanting to get promoted. Last year we fell just short but we’re back in now and everyone’s full concentration is on getting this club back to where it should be”.
He emphasised the ambition to push for the automatic promotion places this season and reward the fans with success.
What challenges has Kyle Dempsey faced off the pitch?
In March 2023, Dempsey faced legal issues following an assault incident in July 2022. He admitted the offence and received a 12-month suspended sentence suspended for 18 months, alongside 200 hours of unpaid voluntary work. He was also subjected to an electronic tag curfew which he was allowed to break for professional football commitments.
This personal challenge has been part of his journey but has not deterred his professional focus and commitment since.
How do Bolton Wanderers, the manager, and fans view Kyle Dempsey?
Bolton Wanderers and manager Ian Evatt hold Dempsey in high regard for his contributions and professionalism. Evatt credited Dempsey’s performances in the 2022/23 season as outstanding and pivotal to the club’s success, which was a factor in the improved contract terms offered to him.