For the new season, I’ve decided to bring back our Vital Bolton match previews. Here we go:
Following Chievo Verona pulling out of a fixture at the Macron, Guy Luzon’s Charlton visit to round off both team’s pre-season preparation. This could prove to be our most challenging game so far this summer.
Vital Quotes:
‘This will be our final game before the season kicks off’- that’s literally all Neil Lennon said ahead of this clash.
‘We are focused on the game at Bolton. It’s the last game before the league starts against QPR and for us it is very important that we play with players who have a chance to play against QPR.’ -Charlton’s 39 year old manager, Guy Luzon on the back of losing to Southend.
Bolton Wanderers Team News:
No new injury concerns, the likes of Zach Clough may well still be rested. We could see a return to the setup for David Wheater while Mark Davies and Liam Trotter will be wanting some more game time. It’s also thought that Lennon might hand some more game time to youth.
Player to watch: Derik Osede
Anything could happen with this man… anything!
Charlton Athletic Team News:
Goalkeeper Stephen Henderson has undergone shoulder surgery following an injury picked up while warming up. New French defender, Naby Sarr could feature for the Addicks.
Player to watch: Jordan Cousins
The exciting young midfielder was listed in the Football League’s emerging XI alongside Zach Clough. Possessing strong technical ability, he could cause problems for our defence.
Match Facts & Stats
We’ve played Charlton 87 times, won 28 and lost 42 times according to 11v11.com
We drew at home and lost away against them last season.
Match Prediction:
I expect a 2-2 draw including some defensive howlers. The game will start to die out after 70 minutes as both teams make changes- that is what a friendly is after all, right?
Next Fixtures:
Derby County in the league… I’m worried.