Sam Darby has praised Bolton Wanderers striker Johnny Kenny as their on-field understanding continues to grow during the Irishman’s loan spell from Celtic…
Johnny Kenny of Bolton Wanderers. Lincoln City v Bolton Wanderers, League One, LNER Stadium, Lincoln, 14 February 2026. Photo Anna Gowthorpe IMAGO/Shutterstock
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The striker, who spent last season on loan at Dundee United, benefited from Kenny’s contribution in Rangers’ 5-1 win away at Exeter City on Saturday.
Dalby was set up by the Republic of Ireland international in a League One match at St James’ Park, before Kenny opened his account for the club with a goal just after half-time.
Speaking after the game, the 26-year-old highlighted Kenny’s work rate and influence, praising the performance of the player on loan from the Hoops, a result that showed their developing forward partnership.
Johnny Kenny of Bolton Wanderers. Lincoln City v Bolton Wanderers, League One, LNER Stadium, Lincoln, 14 February 2026. Photo Anna Gowthorpe IMAGO/Shutterstock
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Dalby said via Bolton Wanderers club media: “Johnny was brilliant all day, controlling the channels and making it very difficult for their centre-backs.”
“Then he sent me a right-footed shot that I really couldn’t miss. We’re very different types of players and he might be doing things that I’m not good at and vice versa.”
“So, obviously, it feels like a good partnership and the more we play together, the better we get.”
Last week, Kenny reflected on his move to Bolton and life in England. “I wouldn’t say it makes any difference,” He said when asked about the difference in level between the Scottish Premiership and England’s First Division.
Johnny Kenny of Bolton Wanderers. Lincoln City v Bolton Wanderers, League One, LNER Stadium, Lincoln, 14 February 2026. Photo Anna Gowthorpe IMAGO/Shutterstock
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“Obviously, I came in with a calf injury, so that put me out probably two to three weeks and I’m just trying to get back to full fitness and obviously bonding with Sam on the field. [Dalby]who I’m playing with in the front today and obviously all the other boys. “
“Here, it’s probably a little more physical than what I’m used to on the road. It can be a little more direct at times, but it’s something I want to learn and get used to because I want to be here until the end of the season and perform well and get us back to where we belong.”
Johnny Kenny celebrates. Celtic vs. Rangers. The Premier League Sports Cup semi-finals were held at Hampden. November 2, 2025. Photo AJ (Celtic Stars)
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“I’ve been working at Celtic Park and other stadiums in Scotland over the last year. We were going to have 60,000 people at Celtic Park and now we’re here. I don’t know what’s here, 3,000, 4,000.”
“Obviously, it’s different, but you have to control what you can control on the court. It can’t really affect things around you. You just have to focus on the court.”
Connor Spence
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