Key Points
- · Steven Schumacher, Bolton Wanderers manager, previewed the upcoming match against Blackpool, discussing team readiness and recent preparations.
- · The squad benefited from a rare free week, providing players mental rest and recovery time.
- · Schumacher highlighted the competitive nature of the Blackpool fixture, remembering their tough derby match last season.
- · Injuries remain a concern with key player Jordy unavailable, but some returning players gained fitness in a midweek reserves game.
- · Schumacher expressed confidence in the current squad depth and training performances.
- · The transfer window closing soon remains a focus, with Schumacher hopeful for last-minute squad reinforcements.
- · Schumacher acknowledged the importance of away support from Bolton fans and the challenge of playing at an atmosphere like Blackpool's Bloomfield Road.
- · The manager emphasised the need to be clinical in front of goal to turn draws into wins after an unbeaten run.
What has Steven Schumacher said about the team's preparation for the Blackpool game?
As reported by Bolton Wanderers FC on 29 August 2025, Steven Schumacher discussed the benefits of having a free week ahead of the Blackpool fixture. He said, “It’s been good. The players, staff needed it. It was a tough schedule playing on Wednesday nights, so having a clear week to refresh has helped mentally and physically” (Bolton Wanderers FC). He noted that the team started the week with an extra day off and used the time to prepare normally for Saturday’s game.
Schumacher further mentioned a midweek match against Manchester United's reserve side held at Carrington to aid players returning from injury, describing this as a positive step in regaining match fitness.
How does Schumacher describe the significance and challenges of the Blackpool fixture?
Speaking ahead of the trip, Schumacher acknowledged the game’s difficulty, recalling last year’s derby game which Bolton performed well in but ultimately lost. He said, “It was a good game, and we competed really well, but we came out with the wrong results” (Bolton Wanderers FC).
From Sportsmole’s preview, Schumacher is aware that Blackpool has not had the start they wanted this season but praised their recruitment and quality players, expecting them to climb the table. He warned that the opposition will have a clear game plan and will be highly motivated, making it a tough contest.
What is the injury situation for Bolton Wanderers ahead of Blackpool?
Journalist coverage from Bolton Wanderers FC and BBC Sports highlights that Jordy remains sidelined for the game, while other players like Sam Alby, Richard Taylor, and Chris Fino have gained valuable minutes in recent reserve matches to speed their return. Schumacher said, “The squad is good at the moment, and whoever plays has to do the business” (Bolton Wanderers FC).
This update assures fans that although injuries persist, the squad has depth and players on the bench must be ready to contribute.
How does Schumacher reflect on Bolton’s recent form and what does he expect from the game?
According to a video interview on Wanderers TV, Schumacher pointed out that Bolton have been unbeaten in their last four games, which provides a platform to build on but admitted they have drawn matches that should have been won. He stressed the team needs to be more clinical in taking scoring chances, saying, “We haven’t managed to turn all performances into victories, but the lads have been playing really well” (Bolton Wanderers FC).
He considers this Blackpool away game an opportunity to secure important points that could positively influence forthcoming fixtures.
What role does the expected support from Bolton fans play, and how does Schumacher see the game atmosphere?
Schumacher, quoted by Bolton Wanderers FC, spoke warmly about Bolton supporters, acknowledging their passionate backing especially in away matches. “They were brilliant last year and stuck with us. The support was excellent, but we need to come away with something this time,” he said (Bolton Wanderers FC).
He regards the atmosphere at Bloomfield Road as an important challenge but one that can inspire the team if they maintain focus and execute their game plan.
What has Schumacher said about the transfer window and squad reinforcement?
With the transfer window closing on Monday after the Blackpool game, Schumacher expressed a desire to complete business early to avoid last-minute decisions. “We’re confident we’ll get something sorted over the weekend,” he told BBC Sports. He indicated some incoming and outgoing player movements may still occur and urged fans to stay tuned for updates.