The Trotters boss believes it was the perfect reward for a young player he called "the best and most staunch Bolton Wanderers fan in our camp".
Allardyce continued: "He wears a massive tattoo with the club badge on it. He comes from the heart of Bolton and he loves the club so much and is so passionate.
"He just asked if he could get on for a couple of minutes. We were always ready to play him outfield as he has played at right-back and centre-back for the youth team.
"I thought it would be a perfect late Christmas present."