Match Preview

Preview: Bolton v Crystal Palace

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It’s the third round of the World’s Greatest Cup Competition (prefer the Checkatrade myself) and Bolton’s reward for getting past Grimsby and Sheffield United is a home tie against Premier League strugglers Crystal Palace.

It’ll be a day of reunions. Martin Kelly, while he has never played for us, watched us at Burnden Park as a kid. More relevant, Dean Moxey is a former Palace player, while we welcome back Lee Chung-yong for the first time since leaving the club two years ago.

And then, the manager. Sam Allardyce was recently appointed Palace boss, but has yet to work his magic in the three league games he has had in charge.

Who will be downing the pints of wine tomorrow night?

Vital Quotes:

“I`ve seen Palace and they haven`t got the best defensive record but they have been scoring quite a few goals, which is good for them when they`re conceding.

“It`s going to be tough for us obviously but we think we can go and get a result.’

David Wheater speaking to the Bolton News

Bolton Wanderers Team News:

Lawrie Wilson and Lewis Buxton are still injury doubts, which means Derik could get another run out at right back.

Sammy Ameobi has now departed so it could mean a start for James Henry who has signed on.

Player to watch: James Henry

Expect him to start, and he could end up cementing his place if he scores some goals and puts in the performances he is capable of.

Crystal Palace Team News:

Bakary Sako and Wilfried Zaha are both on African Cup of Nations duty.

Loic Remy should start, as may goalkeeper Julian Speroni

Player to watch: Lee Chung-yong

Chungy’s back! He’ll get a warm welcome and if Allardyce does make changes, he could get a start.

Match Facts & Stats

Bolton haven’t failed to reach the fourth round since 2009, when Sunderland knocked us out in round three.

Sam Allardyce has returned three times to Bolton since leaving the club in 2007. He has won two games and lost one.

Palace have one point out of the nine available in the league since Allardyce was appointed.

Bolton are looking for their 11th straight win at home in all competitions.

Match Prediction:

A 2-0 loss. There is a two division gap so it will be a bridge to gap, but I hope I am badly wrong.

Next Fixtures:

We play Swindon in the league at home next Saturday, before travelling to Southend a week later

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