Bolton slipped further down the Premier League standings as they lost their home tie with Newcastle and the Trotters are going to be in big problems if they fail to win this game. Wolverhampton rode their luck at the Emirates, but, nonetheless, managed to take one point from their game against Arsenal, making sure to stay above the relegation zone.

Massive game for Bolton

The game against Wolves can be dubbed as match of the season for the Trotters, as three points from this clash would help them restore some of the lost confidence as well as finally leave the bottom three. To say that I am disappointed with Bolton’s performances this season would be an understatement, seeing that everybody expected much more from Owen Coyle’s side following some impressive showings last term. The squad only underwent small changes in the summer, and it looks as though the team are even stronger than last term, although injuries to key players Stuart Holden and Lee Chung-Yong have certainly destabilized the Trotters. Even so, I am positive that Owen Coyle’s side have got a lot more potential than they are showing and the home game against Wolverhampton is a perfect opportunity to kick-start this season. With Kevin Davies and Chris Eagles expected to return to the starting line-up, the hosts should have enough in them to record a valuable win at their Reebok.

Stuart Holden, Lee Chung-Yong, Tyrone Mears and Sean Davis remain long-term casualties.

Valuable point at the Emirates

Wolverhampton are the usual suspects when it comes to relegation strugglers, but Mick McCarthy’s side have so far managed to defy the odds and keep their Premiership status. Even though it looked that Wolves could escape the survival fight after taking seven points from first three league games, the team soon returned to where they belong, after winning just 2 of next 15 games. The Midlands side are going through a rough patch at the moment, as witnessed by the fact that they picked up just two points from last four games, even if they deserved to lose to both Norwich and Arsenal. Wolves were incredibly lucky to take one point from their away game against the Gunners, and that was the first positive result on the road after six straight defeats. Taking their dismal away form into account, Wolves cannot be trusted to avoid defeat at Reebok Stadium.

Nenad Milijas starts his three-match ban, but David Edwards could return after recovering from illness. Ronald Zubar, however, is a major doubt.

Verdict

Bolton may not be too impressive this season, but they certainly have enough quality and determination to beat one of the worst travelers in the top flight. Wolves are also going through a rough patch and I seriously doubt they can avoid defeat in this match.

Our prediction: Home win

Odds: 2.30 (13/10)

Bookmaker: William Hill