bwfc.co.uk previews Wanderers' upcoming home clash with the Addicks
With Wanderers returning to Sky Bet League One action against Charlton Athletic this weekend, bwfc.co.uk highlights five talking points ahead of the visit of the Addicks to Macron Stadium.
1. Back in action!
After last weekend's trip to Southend United was called off because of a frozen pitch, it's a welcome return to Sky Bet League One action on Saturday as Wanderers host Charlton Athletic.
Boasting three games in hand on league-leaders Sheffield United, the clash with the Addicks marks only the Whites' third league outing of the calendar year courtesy of their Emirates FA Cup exploits against Crystal Palace.
With attentions now firmly focused on the league, Phil Parkinson's men will be hungry to make up for lost time as they look to maintain their promotion charge.
2. First win of 2017?
Having twice battled Premier League Crystal Palace in the Emirates FA Cup in recent weeks, Bolton will be going in search of their first win of 2017 against Charlton.
Scoring a last-minute equaliser to earn a point away at Coventry City in their first outing of the calendar year, the shoe was on the other foot as the Trotters fell to a late home defeat against Swindon Town two weeks ago.
And while no-one is panicking around BL6 with confidence in the Wanderers camp high, the Whites will be hungry to claim their first three points of the year this weekend.
3. James Henry
Cementing his place in Bolton's starting XI in recent weeks after extending his loan stint at Macron Stadium, James Henry has been in fine form since the turn of the year.
Scoring what could prove to be a crucial last-minute winner at home to Scunthorpe United on New Year's Eve, the winger also fired home an outstanding strike against Crystal Palace last week to give the Trotters the lead.
Unfortunate not to have netted more having also hit the woodwork on numerous occasions, Henry looks set to again be a key player for Wanderers this weekend.
4. Home comforts
Returning to Macron Stadium for the first time since their seven-game home winning run in the league was ended by Swindon Town, the Whites will be hopeful of reinstating BL6's fortress status on Saturday.
Bolton have lost just twice in front of their fans in the league so far this season, and have enjoyed some of their most memorable results of the season at home having seen off the likes of promotion-challengers Sheffield United and Scunthorpe United.
With tickets on sale for just £23, make sure to get down to Macron Stadium, be loud, be proud and back the boys!
5. Parky's former club
Adding an extra element to proceedings this weekend, Trotters boss Phil Parkinson will be facing his former side having left The Valley in January 2011.
Initially serving as Alan Pardew's assistant manager at Charlton, the Wanderers gaffer replaced him as caretaker manager in November 2008.
Handed the job permanently the following month, he spent just over two seasons in the Valley hotseat, and will no doubt enjoy the possibility of the Whites building on their positive season so far against his former employers.
Support Phil Parkinson's men when they take on Charlton Athletic at Macron Stadium this weekend!