He may be known as 'The Badger', but it doesn't look like this canny old operator will be getting fired any time soon
Blackpool-born McCann made 11 appearances for Everton before dropping down a division with Sunderland.
The tough-tackling, hard-working central midfielder flourished at the Stadium of Light, helping the side rise to the top half of the Premier League and appearing for England as a substitute in Sven-Goran Eriksson’s first match in charge. He joined Aston Villa and made 110 league appearances in four seasons but lost his place before moving to Bolton ahead of the 2007/08 campaign.
Like many of Sammy Lee's signings, he made a slow start to his Reebok career and his worth was questioned by fans – especially as his speciality is the quietly important stuff like covering and effective redistribution. However, he scored vital goals – one in the UEFA Cup meant Bolton became the first English side to win at Red Star Belgrade, while the winner in the league at Middlesbrough in mid-April was even more important. By the end of the season, 'The Badger' was seen as a very valid member of the team; although his place is under threat from Fabrice Muamba, he is regarded as an important member of the squad – by Bolton's fans and manager.