Owen Coyle has assured Stuart Holden that there will be a long-term deal waiting for him as he faces six weeks out with a broken leg.
The Bolton midfielder, who joined on a short-term deal from Houston Dynamo in January, fractured his right fibula in USA's 2-1 defeat to Holland last night.
It is a massive blow to boss Coyle, who had seen Holden impress after starting the club's last two matches, but the manager recognises that it is a bigger personal blow to the player himself.
"It's disappointing for Stuart because he has come into the team and done ever so well," Coyle said. "What we do know is he will come back bigger and stronger, but it is sad for him to miss out at this moment in time.
"He's come in with a real hunger and desire to do well for our club, and in the two games he's played, we've seen his quality.
"We've already spoken with him and his representative to assure him he will be here for longer because of the belief I have in him, and the quality he has shown since he came to the club. When we signed him, within the contract there was the option there to extend it further, which we will do. It augurs well for his future and that of the football club."