BOLTON boss Sam Allardyce has dismissed speculation linking Ivan Campo with a return to Spain.

La Liga strugglers Athletic Bilbao are thought to want the 32-year-old former Real Madrid star.

The club, who only field Basque-born players, have never been relegated from the country's top flight.

But they're in danger this season and have lost star playmaker Pablo Orbaiz with ruptured knee ligaments.

Campo, who has only started one of Bolton's last three games, hails from the region despite his strong Madrid links.

And he's been quoted as saying a move to his Northern Spanish homeland appeals.

But Bolton, who usually reject such stories as "media speculation," have been quick to deny them.

Allardyce said: "We have had no enquiries from Athletic Bilbao or any other club for the services of Ivan Campo.

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"Ivan signed a new contract in the summer and is happy at Bolton Wanderers and playing in England.

"The media have linked Ivan with a move back to the Basque country because he is from that part of the world.

"I can assure you he is staying in England with Bolton Wanderers."

Campo was born in San Sebastian to the north-east of Bilbao and played for Basque side Alaves.

"I would love to return home, since Bilbao is very close to home," said the former international in an interview with Spanish radio.

"I know the atmosphere there as I have played at the San Mames with the Basque XI and I have to say that I loved it."

Campo almost left the Reebok Stadium last summer after holding out on a new contract. Real Mallorca were close to capturing the curly-haired Wanderers midfielder.

Ricardo Gardner took another big step towards a first team recall by coming through a second reserve team outing.

With Tal Ben Haim suspended and Quinton Fortune injured, Gardner is expected to play some part in Saturday's match with West Ham.

How important is Campo to Bolton? Have your say.

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