Bolton left-back Gretar Steinsson has defended Manchester City's Sergio Aguero ahead of the striker's appearance at the Reebok Stadium today.

Aguero, who is expected to start against the Wanderers, was sent off for spitting at former Bolton player Matt Taylor while starring for Atletico Madrid in a 2008 UEFA Cup match at the stadium.

However, Steinsson has defended the City signing by admitting that "it's healthy" to be passionate on the pitch.

"There was a lot at stake in that game and there had been some aggravation going around," he told The Sun. "One of our players may have aggravated him a bit and maybe he didn't take too kindly to it. He was sent off.

"No player decides before a game that they'll lose the plot. It's just that we are passionate players. There is a lot at stake in these matches.

"I would think there was something wrong with a player if he didn't lose the plot once or twice in a long career. It's healthy to lose it a couple of times."

Steinsson, who joined the Trotters from Dutch side AZ Alkmaar, has made 104 league appearances in five seasons at the club.