Bolton will look to take advantage of an out-of-form Newcastle side at the Reebok Stadium as they look to escape their relegation nightmare.
Owen Coyle’s men took a vital step to safety by winning their crunch Lancashire derby on Tuesday night against Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park. Bolton fans were delighted to see midfielder Stuart Holden in the crowd against Rovers and the American midfielder is back in full training. Coyle saw Spanish left-back Marcos Alonso taken off with a foot injury, ruling him out for six weeks. Paul Robinson is expected to deputise against Newcastle and Bolton’s defence is also strengthened by the return of David Wheater following a four-match ban.
Newcastle’s form has slipped considerably since their unbeaten start to the season six games ago. Since their 2-1 win against Everton, Alan Pardew’s side have picked up just two points from their last six fixtures and have slipped down the table. Newcastle also face Liverpool and Manchester United following their fixture with Bolton, so Pardew must view the game as one they have to win. Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye returns from suspension and is expected to slot back into midfield. Pardew still has Steven Taylor out with an injury and has defender Davide Santon doubtful with a knee problem. Newcastle were beaten 3-2 by West Brom at the Sports Direct Arena on Wednesday and are in need of three points at the Reebok Stadium to halt the slide.
Wanderers have only won once in their last eight home matches, but face Wolves following the Newcastle game and see these two as an opportunity to improve both their form and standing. Pardew’s side are favourites for three points, but Bolton have confidence from their hard-fought win against Blackburn and could get a draw.
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