The versatility of the Welshman has proved invaluable to Wanderers' cause during his first two seasons at the club.

Prior to signing a three-year deal at the Reebok in the summer of 2009, Ricketts was a mainstay in the Hull City defence during the 2008/9 campaign, helping to preserve the Tigers' Barclays Premier League status during their debut season in the top-flight.

The Aylesbury-born defender made his Football League debut in 2000 with Oxford United, accumulating a total of 48 appearances for the club. Whilst with the U's, Ricketts also enjoyed a short stint on loan with Nuneaton Borough, before later moving to Telford United on a permanent deal.

Impressive displays eventually earned a move to Swansea City in May 2005 and it was at Vetch Field where Ricketts established his reputation during a three-year spell.

A move to Hull City followed in July 2006 and within two seasons he had played his part in securing the club's promotion to the Barclays Premier League for the first time in its history. In total, Ricketts made 129 appearances for the Humberside-based outfit.

Ricketts has played in a variety of roles since moving to Bolton, including left-back, centre-half and centre midfield. However, it is at right-back where he has made the majority of appearances having competed for a position in the team with Gretar Steinsson.

Ricketts 2010/11 season was cut short in February when he snapped his Achilles tendon during the FA Cup fourth round tie at Wigan. He is expected to be sidelined for six months, meaning a return to action is expected in September/October of 2011.

He is also a regular member of the Welsh national squad, earning more than 40 caps.

To sponsor Sam please contact the corporate sales team on 01204 673761 or email sales@bwfc.co.uk.