Lee Chung-Yong thanks Bolton fans for popular reception upon first-team return

08/05/2012 2:17:00 PM

The popular South Korean said his leg feels much better after making his Premier League return on Sunday after a long-term absence following the pre-season injury

Lee Chung-Yong has thanked the Bolton supporters for a warm reception upon his return to the first-team after more than 10 months out following a broken leg in pre-season.

The popular 23-year-old South Korean midfielder, who won the club's Player of the Year award in 2010, was an 82nd-minute substitute in Sunday's 2-2 draw with West Bromwich.

The cameo was Lee's first in the Premier League in almost 12 months and he appreciated the support of fans after being given a nice reception upon his introduction.

"The fans were amazing," Lee told the club's website.

"They make me feel very happy when I play in the Reebok Stadium. I wish we could have won the game for them."

Lee also played for Bolton's reserves side in a behind-closed-doors game on Friday before his first-team return.

"My leg feels very better. I have enjoyed being with the first team again. I played in a game on Friday and after it I felt a little bit tired, but it was only a gentle game," he said.

On his return, where Bolton threw away a two-goal lead, he added: "It was a strange game. We had chances to get more goals in the second half but we didn't. The goalkeeper made some good saves."

However, Lee turned his attention to Bolton's plight, with relegation certain unless they can wiin at Stoke City on the final day and hope QPR lose at Manchester City.

"I believe we can do it. I think everyone will be more than ready for the final game," Lee said.

"We have one week to prepare. A very important week and we must concentrate. QPR beat Stoke. I feel we are a better team than QPR so I hope we can go beat Stoke."

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