Bolton Wanderers face Reading in the Sky Bet Championship on Tuesday evening at the University of Bolton Stadium. With that said, bwfc.co.uk highlights five key points to take into the fixture.
1) Squad Update
Manager Phil Parkinson has been given food for thought ahead of Tuesday's clash with the Royals, with Luca Connell and Joe Pritchard both impressing on their full debuts for the club in the Whites' 2-1 Emirates FA Cup defeat against Bristol City on Friday evening.
Speaking about the pair, the gaffer said: “Luca was brilliant tonight - him and Pritch deserved their opportunities against Bristol and did extremely well."
There are doubts meanwhile over David Wheater (knee), Marc Wilson (dead leg) and Ben Alnwick (back) who were all sidelined ahead of Friday's cup tie, while Mark Beevers has an Achilles problem.
2) The Boss – Jose Manuel Gomes
After starting his coaching career in his early twenties, Jose Manuel Gomes has coaching experience in Portugal, Spain, Hungary, UAE and Saudi Arabia.
After returning to Portugal with Rio Ave in 2018, Gomes was announced as Reading manager in December and left Rio Ave eighth in the Primeira Liga.
He won the Saudi Super Cup in 2016 with Al Ahli and has been assistant manager at FC Porto and Spanish side Malaga.
Gomes replaced Paul Clement at the Madejski Stadium after his dismissal in December 2018.
Reading sat 21st at the time of his appointment, and after his first six games in charge, Reading have won only once, drawing once and losing the remaining four.
3) New faces at the Madejski Stadium
After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, Reading found themselves busy in the transfer market in the summer, securing deals for a number of experienced players including former Hull City midfielder David Meyler.
With the team searching for consistency, they delved into the market again this month, securing the services of Liverpool prospect Ovie Ejaria after he cut his loan spell at Rangers short.
Ejaria mutually parted ways with the Scottish outfit after failing to settle at Ibrox, scoring twice in 28 appearances.
Reading have strengthened their team in all areas throughout January meanwhile, with loan signings Matt Miazga of Chelsea and Nelson Oliveira from Norwich boosting their defending and attacking options respectively.
Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has also joined them on loan for the season.
4) Game to remember
Bolton Wanderers 4-3 Reading, Division One Play-off Final 1995
A fixture against Reading will always bring back fond memories for Bolton fans, remembering their famous comeback in the Division One Play-off Final 24 years ago.
Lee Nogan and Adrian Williams gave the Royals a 2-0 lead at half time and were unlucky not to be further ahead at the break after a heroic penalty save by Keith Branagan denied Stuart Lovell the opportunity to surely put the game to bed.
Bolton needed a lifeline, which came after 74 minutes, as now former-manager Owen Coyle cut Reading’s lead in half before a late equaliser from Fabian de Freitas sent the game into extra-time.
Mixu Paatelainan gave Bolton the lead for the first time in the game and then a second goal for de Freitas sent Bolton on their way to a Premier League return - their first time back in the top flight for 15 years.
A goal in the 119th minute from Jimmy Quinn for Reading brought the game back into question, but it was too little, too late as the whistle blew, confirming Bolton’s new Premier League status.
To see the rollercoaster final, click on the video below.
5. Ticket information
Tickets for Tuesday's clash with the Royals are just £15 for adults and £10 for concession, with them able to be purchased in person at Bolton Central or by calling 0844 871 2932.
Alternatively, supporters can book their tickets online by clicking here with the ability to print at home to avoid the queues.
Supporters looking to upgrade their match day experience for this fixture can purchase hospitality places in the Lion of Vienna Suite for only £60. This includes a delicious one-course meal plus a cushioned seat in a prime viewing location.
Season Ticket Holders can upgrade their ticket to the Lion of Vienna Suite for just £50.
For further details or to book, please contact the Sales Team 01204 673761 or email sales@bwfc.co.uk