Key Points
· Bolton Wanderers boss Steven Schumacher expresses strong belief in his squad’s character ahead of the crucial League One clash against Wigan Athletic.
· Schumacher highlights the importance of securing points to maintain their play-off push amid recent poor results.
· Squad face injury and suspension challenges with Ricardo Santos and Kyle Dempsey still recovering, while Aaron Morley is suspended.
· Bolton currently sit 8th in the table, two points shy of the play-offs, with seven games remaining this season.
· Wigan Athletic battling relegation, making the clash vital for both teams.
· Bolton have not won at home against Wigan in nearly a decade and face a history of recent disappointing results against them.
· Schumacher praises substitutes and squad competition, reflecting a positive group mentality despite recent setbacks.
· Predicted lineups and tactical formations detailed, with key players like Nathan Baxter, Josh Sheehan, and George Thomason expected to feature.
Speaking ahead of the match scheduled for Saturday, 20 September 2025, Schumacher acknowledged the pressure on his side following a run of disappointing results but expressed confidence in his players’ mindset.
“There’s a lot at stake. We understand that we need to get back on track. We need to get some points on the board because the last few results have gone against us and we don’t want to fall out of that play-off hunt. So, it’s so important for us from that perspective, as it’s important for Wigan. They need points as well to get themselves away from the relegation zone,” Schumacher said.
What is the current state of Bolton Wanderers' season and squad?
Bolton Wanderers currently occupy 8th place in the League One table, trailing the play-off positions by two points with seven matches remaining in the season. After initially gaining momentum under the stewardship of manager Steven Schumacher, who took over in January, the team has suffered a downturn with three consecutive defeats, including a recent 2-1 loss to Blackpool.
The squad are navigating several challenges, including injuries to Ricardo Santos and Kyle Dempsey, who are still recovering, as well as the suspension of midfielder Aaron Morley following a red card against Blackpool. Consequently, Schumacher is expected to field a modified midfield pairing, likely involving Josh Sheehan and George Thomason, who has been an ever-present figure in midfield.
Defensively, the absence of Santos and Eoin Toal leaves Will Forrester, Chris Forino, and George Johnston as primary candidates to anchor the backline. Goalkeeper Nathan Baxter remains first choice but has yet to commit to a contract extension beyond June 2025.
Why is the Wigan Athletic match so significant for Bolton Wanderers?
The forthcoming clash with Wigan Athletic represents a pivotal fixture for both sides. While Bolton aim to maintain their push towards the League One play-offs, Wigan are embroiled in a relegation battle, seeking vital points to climb away from the drop zone.
Wigan, managed by Ryan Lowe, have endured a disappointing run, winning only two of their last 12 matches and struggling to convert chances, scoring just six goals in their last seven games. Their recent defensive setup, likely to feature a back three of James Carragher, Jason Kerr, and Will Aimson, along with goalkeeper Sam Tickle, will test Bolton’s attacking threat.
Schumacher emphasised the local rivalry’s importance and historical context, noting Bolton’s long wait for a home win against Wigan. In the past decade, Bolton have failed to secure victory in four home meetings—three matches ended in defeat and one in a draw. This historical backdrop adds extra motivation for the team to overturn recent trends.
What does the boss say about the squad’s character and recent performances?
Schumacher praised the squad’s character under challenging circumstances. Referring to the team’s ability to respond despite recent setbacks, he singled out the contribution of substitutes in the last match for injecting energy and positivity on the pitch.
“The subs who came on to the pitch made a huge impact. I thought Ethan and Josh gave us that energy when we needed it because we'd worked hard in the first 70 minutes. Sam Dalby was a threat when he came on. Marcus looked lively and Ibs looked dangerous and lively and was the best he's played for us. When I have to pick a starting XI, it's difficult for me at the moment because everyone's champing at the bit to play,” Schumacher remarked.
His comments illustrate a positive group mentality and healthy competition for places, important factors in sustaining performance levels as the season enters its critical phase.
What are the expected starting line-ups for Bolton and Wigan?
For Bolton Wanderers, the likely starting XI includes Nathan Baxter in goal, a defence featuring Will Forrester, Chris Forino, George Johnston, and wing-backs Josh Dacres-Cogley and Jordi Osei-Tutu. Midfield is set to comprise Josh Sheehan and George Thomason, with attack spearheaded by Szabolcs Schon, Aaron Collins, and John McAtee.
Wigan Athletic’s probable starting lineup is expected to include goalkeeper Sam Tickle, a back three of James Carragher, Jason Kerr, and Will Aimson, midfielders Scott Smith and Oliver Norburn, and forwards Dale Taylor and Chris Sze, supported by attacking midfielder Ronan Darcy.
How have Bolton Wanderers fared historically against Wigan Athletic?
As reported by Yahoo Sports, Bolton’s recent history against Wigan has been tough, with no home victory in their last four meetings stretching back approximately ten years. The results include heavy defeats and disappointment that Bolton are eager to reverse in the upcoming derby.