Ian Evatt is relishing a return to a ‘fantastic looking’ University of Bolton Stadium as Wanderers kick off their home campaign against Wycombe.
The Whites’ home – which hosted its first competitive game 25 years ago next month – has undergone a major refurbishment programme over the summer to give it a fresh look.
New club branding and signage is in place, along with re-decoration and upgrades to hospitality and concourse areas.
Internal improvements have also been made around the players’ tunnel and dressing room areas, while supporters will also have the chance to use the new Fan Zone situated outside the stadium’s West Stand ahead of kick-off against Wycombe on Saturday.
With over 13,000 season tickets having been sold and a crowd in excess of 16,500 expected, Evatt is looking forward to the prospect of leading his team out again in such impressive surroundings.
“Doesn’t it look fantastic? It really does,” said the Wanderers’ boss.
“It’s amazing seeing how much this football club has developed in the last two years since I’ve been here.
“The work off the pitch Neil Hart and his team have put into reviving this place is outstanding
“There’s been so much hard work and we are so appreciative of it. It looks fantastic.
“We’re really fortunate to be here and really looking forward to a fantastic atmosphere on Saturday.”
As well as a facelift to the stadium, Wanderers have also implemented some operational changes designed to improve and streamline supporter transactions which were trialled at the Whites' pre-season friendly against Huddersfield Town last month.
And Evatt hopes everyone feels at home when they return to watch his side - beaten at the UniBol just once since early January - take on Wycombe following an opening-day draw at Ipswich Town last weekend.
He added: “The Fan Zone being launched is amazing, the cashless stadium and the car parking scenario – we are trying to do the right things.
“Just give us a little bit of time to get them right and spot-on.
“There are going to be teething problems, as there are with anything new, but we are doing our best to make the fan experience as good as we possibly can, pre, post-game and certainly during the game.
“That’s my remit. I’m fortunate enough to be at the forefront and the face of the football club – along with Sharon – and it’s important I give out the message that people are working incredibly hard behind the scenes to give the fans the best possible experience.
“When you are trying to do so much at once, there are going to be teething problems so please don’t expect perfection from day one.
“It’s a work in progress. So please bear with us while we try and get things right.
“But what we will do is strive and work tirelessly to make sure we give the fans the best possible experience pre, post-game and, obviously, during the game.”