We're no mugs - Megson

Gary Megson is calling on his Bolton side to maintain their willing work ethic when they face Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Cup on Thursday.

Despite the defeat by Portsmouth which leaves them just above the relegation zone, Megson has been delighted with the players' commitment since he arrived in October.

"I always looks at the effort the players put in," said the Bolton boss. "Never once have I had to question the fact there are one or two people who don't really fancy it or don't put a shift in."

He added: "The players always do - and have done so from day one. They are a great set of lads.

"They are great to work with, great fun to be around and want the best for the club. At times against Portsmouth we were not fortunate enough. But they always give it a go."

Megson knows his side will have to raise their game against the Spanish visitors, who lie fourth in the table and are pushing for a Champions League slot.

He is hoping they play their own style and at least avoid defeat in front of a big crowd in the first leg of the round of 32.

"I do not think Atletico will play a defensive game as they don't have those kind of players. They will play more on the counter attack," he said.

"If we play as we did against Portsmouth and hopefully finish better we are capable of getting a good result."

Defender Gary Cahill and midfielder Matt Taylor are set to make their European bows after arriving from Aston Villa and Portsmouth respectively in the January transfer window.