Johnny Kenny reacts to Sam Dalby's Bolton Wanderers message as Celtic deal wanted | OneFootball

Johnny Kenny reacts to Sam Dalby's Bolton Wanderers message as Celtic deal wanted | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: Football League World

Football League World

·29 May 2026

Johnny Kenny reacts to Sam Dalby's Bolton Wanderers message as Celtic deal wanted

Article image:Johnny Kenny reacts to Sam Dalby's Bolton Wanderers message as Celtic deal wanted

Johnny Kenny sent a message to Bolton teammate Sam Dalby as he reflected on their play-off final win over Stockport County.

Bolton Wanderers have started planning for life back in the Championship after their emphatic 4-1 win over Stockport County at Wembley in the play-off final.


OneFootball Videos


It capped off a great season for Steven Schumacher’s side, who had been expected to be in the mix for promotion given the size of the club, and the resources available.

However, it was a competitive division, and Bolton deserve plenty of credit for getting the job done, particularly with the manner of the performance at the national stadium.

Article image:Johnny Kenny reacts to Sam Dalby's Bolton Wanderers message as Celtic deal wanted

Johnny Kenny reacts to Sam Dalby’s Bolton message amid transfer uncertainty

Sam Dalby once again played a big role for the Trotters, as he scored Bolton’s crucial third in the 81st minute with an outstanding acrobatic effort.

That was the goal that seemed to end any belief Stockport had of getting back in the game, and it was another defining moment for Dalby in the campaign.

The former Wrexham man scored some massive goals to help get Bolton into the play-offs, and he took to social media to reflect on a magical day at Wembley.

Johnny Kenny was among those to respond, as he simply replied ‘partner’ to Dalby, which referenced the good understanding they had when they were on the pitch together.

The Irish international spent the second half of the season on loan with Bolton, where he scored six times in 14 games, in what was a very successful spell.

Sadly for Kenny, injury prevented him from featuring in the play-offs, but he made enough of an impact for many to hope Bolton will try to agree a permanent deal with Celtic, and FLW have been told he should be the ‘number one transfer priority’ going into the window.

Johnny Kenny and Sam Dalby could play big roles for Bolton in the Championship

All connected to Bolton will still be enjoying their huge win over Stockport, and it was a brilliant moment for Dalby to score the goal in the manner he did.

It’s nice for Bolton fans to see Kenny respond to his teammate, as it gives an insight into the close bond of the squad, which every successful team needs.

There’s no doubt it will also increase calls for Kenny to join the club on a long-term deal, and many fans would agree that it should be a priority for Schumacher.

Article image:Johnny Kenny reacts to Sam Dalby's Bolton Wanderers message as Celtic deal wanted

Of course, a deal won’t be straightforward, and it’s complicated by the fact Celtic still haven't named a permanent manager.

Kenny’s recent comments describing the Glasgow giants as a ‘special club’ suggest he hasn’t given up on having a future at Celtic Park, but, ultimately, the next manager is going to have a big say on what happens to the striker.

If the former Shamrock Rovers man is available, then you would expect Bolton to pursue a deal, as he is a young player with the potential to get even better. Plus, he clearly loved his time at the club, which will give them an advantage over any rivals who consider a deal.

So, it’s one to monitor, but it wouldn’t be a major shock if Kenny returned to the Toughsheet Community Stadium, with both Kenny and Dalby potentially having big roles to play for Bolton in the Championship next season.

View publisher imprint