STUNNED Bolton old boy Mark Fish has hit back at the Reebok boo brigade who gave him a hostile reception on his first return since leaving for Charlton 13 months ago.

The 27-year-old South African defender, who made a sharp exit to the London club, was jeered loudly almost every time he touched the ball throughout the game.

Fish admitted he was saddened by chants accusing him of being a ''greedy so-and-so'' at a club where he has such happy memories.

He said: ''I expected an exciting, passionate return in the sense that I didn't expect to be received with open arms.

''But for them to sing that I am a 'greedy so-and-so' well I don't think so. If you asked the managers about what I'm earning then you'd find it's not really a big difference.

''It was sad that the reception was like that because I feel I always gave my best for the club.

''I left Bolton after two years of trying to get into the Premiership. I was hoping to fulfil my ambition to play in the Premiership and that was my only reason.

''It was always a real disappointment to me that I missed Premiership games because of international duty. I think that if I hadn't been playing for South Africa I might have helped to keep Bolton up.

''I had a wonderful time here. The fans were great but I suppose life goes on. Hopefully next time I come I'll get a bit better reception. I have a really soft spot for the club.

''I was very happy that they got promoted last season after what they had been through in the last three seasons.

''Bolton have come a long way since Sam Allardyce came here. He's done a wonderful job and I don't see why they can't continue to improve.''

He added: ''They are a difficult crowd to please. The side just need to get a goal, or get someone in who can score a goal, to lift the fans.''

Charlton boss Alan Curbishley admitted he was surprised by the crowd reaction to Fish and said: ''He is not the highest paid player in the club.''