He has been outstanding in every match he played in this season Bolton manager Sam Allardyce

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has named Abdoulaye Faye as the club's most influential player this season.

The Senegal midfielder was a virtual unknown when he pitched up at the English Premiership this summer on loan from Lens.

But Allardyce says Faye has taken advantage of the absence of Ivan Campo to earn a place in the first team.

"He is showing he can hack it at this level," Allardyce said.

"We had to rely on our scouts' reports to make sure he was the sort of player we would want to come and play in the Premiership.

"I'm glad to say he looks very comfortable, he's starting to make a big contribution for us.

"He has been outstanding in every match he played in this season.

"From my point of view he is our best player and is looking comfortable in front of the back four."

Bolton look set to offer Faye a long-term deal and he is pleased to be here.

"English football really suits my style of play," he told Bolton's official website.

"The physical nature of the game and the pace of the game gives you a real buzz.

"Playing in the holding role is good for me. I'm told to do a specific job and that's what I try to do."