Bolton are now 9 games unbeaten and sit 7 points ahead of Fleetwood Town in the race for promotion from League One. A swift return to the Championship looks on the cards, but only if they can maintain their form.
A hard fought away win at Southend the other night was met with exuberant celebrations, but they have to step up another gear here when they go to Scunthorpe United.
The 3-5-2 which served Phil Parkinson so well at Roots Hall should be in effect again, with the following personnel tasked to make it work:
Probable Bolton Wanderers Playing XI
Formation: 3-5-2
Manager – Phil Parkinson
GK – Mark Howard
The recruit from Sheffield United will have one eye on catching his old team and beating them to the Championship, however for now staving off a good Scunthorpe attack is the immediate task.
CB – Dorian Dervite
When playing with a back 3, it’s important they know each other and so I’d expect no surprise selections. Dervite can start again.
CB – David Wheater
The former Middlesbrough stopper has played at the highest level and been involved with England. His experience could be crucial here.
CB – Mark Beevers
Somewhat incredibly, Beevers has scored in 5 away games on the trot from the back. He’ll be hard pressed to make it 6 though and his first job is keeping Scunthorpe out.
RM – Filipe Morais
Quite a clever free signing from Bradford, Morais is playing his part out wide and should contribute again at Glanford Park.
CM – Jay Spearing
Not lacking in experience, the former Liverpool youngster will be crucial in helping his team over the line this season.
CM – Josh Vela
It must be such a pleasure for Bolton fans to see a home grown player do so well. Full 49 appearances for Vela this season outline his stamina and commitment if nothing else, though his quality in the middle of the park at this level are not in doubt either.
CM – Darren Pratley
The skipper may be getting on in years now but is another whose experience has been crucial during this run.
LM – Dean Moxey
Another marauding performance will be expected of him by the boss, width being so important with such a solid but narrow looking midfield trio on show.
ST – Adam Le Fondre
Not the force of old perhaps, but the on-loan Cardiff striker does have 5 goals in 14 games since arriving in January which is impressive enough.
ST – Gary Madine
The Gateshead-born striker has 9 goals to his name in all competitions this season and how he would love to reach double figures here in such a crucial late season game.