Neil Lennon hails 'Steven Gerrard-esque' Josh Vela

Bolton Wanderers boss Neil Lennon has said that midfielder Josh Vela has all the qualities needed to become the next Steven Gerrard.

The 21-year-old has blossomed since Lennon took charge of the club in October, with the Northern Irishman admitting that he reminds him of the Liverpool captain.

Bolton are thought to have rejected a £1m bid for Vela from the Reds when he was in Wanderers' academy.

Speaking to The Mirror ahead of tonight's FA Cup fourth-round replay with the Merseysiders, Lennon said: "He has been absolutely outstanding since I came in the door.

"He reminds me a lot of Gerrard, in the way he handles himself on the pitch.

"That slim, athletic build, he handles the ball well and gets round the pitch, he's composed and can play a variety of positions."

Vela has started 12 Championship games for the Trotters this season.