For the first time in a few years, Bolton find themselves in the second round of the Carabao Cup.
And it’s a rather tasty tie that comes with it, as we get to make the short journey to Wigan. We’ve sold out our allocation, and it wouldn’t be a massive surprise if some of our fans end up in the home end too. James McClean’s signing for Wigan and subsequent playing to their crowd has added just that extra layer of spice, as if was needed in the first place.
IAN EVATT | Manager previews Wigan Athletic Carabao Cup away clash – YouTube
Team news
Hard to call, Ian Evatt has promised a team that can win the game, but his comment about the league still being the main priority seems to open the door for a change or two. Will Aimson is still out, but Evatt’s timeframe would point at him possibly being involved not at the weekend but potentially for the EFL Trophy game against Port Vale a week tomorrow.
Possible XI: Gilks; Jones, Baptiste, Johnston, John; Williams, Lee; Isgrove, Sarcevic. Afolayan; Doyle
Previously
Dare I mention our last visit there? It was March 2019, and we lost 5-2 in the Championship with our goals coming from Gary O’Neil and Sammy Ameobi. I’ll leave it at that…
The opposition
Wigan have had a rough last 18 months after their surprise administration, relegation from the Championship and near-relegation to League Two. But under new owners, even if they are asking fans to put their hands in their pockets, they’ve been able to rebuild over the summer and have made a reasonable start to the season, although not quite as good as ours. James McClean is the obvious one to watch after the last week, scoring at Charlton already. Charlie Wyke managed 25 goals for Sunderland last season but hasn’t scored for his new club yet. Another key signing over the summer was Tom Naylor, a defender/midfielder who has played over 150 games at League One level.
Prediction
If both teams go strong, it will be a close one. Us to win on penalties.