Bolton Wanderers manager Dougie Freedman has 20 outfield squad members chomping at the bit to play a part in the club’s festive fixtures and isn’t about to stick with the same tried and tested team.
Freedman is confident that if his side can continue their recent home form they will beat Charlton at the Reebok on Saturday, who sit five places below them in 21st in the Championship table.
Bolton beat Doncaster 3-0 in their last home game and Saturday’s game is the first of five in 14 days, explaining Freedman’s thinking.
“I’ve got about 20 outfield players I’ve got fit and I’m very comfortable to say that they will be playing some part in the next five games,” the Scot told a press conference.
“I’m not a guy that will play his own eleven, I think those days have gone. Fitness levels are very high. The professional levels are very high. I’m ok with them recovering.
“I will pick the best team that I believe can go and beat them from a tactical point of view and from a freshness point of view.”
After Charlton, Bolton face Barnsley and Leicester away from home before home ties in the league against Middlesbrough and in the FA Cup against Blackpool.
“I feel confident that if we play anything like we’ve been playing at home then we are very capable of winning the game on Saturday,” Freedman said.
“The players are in good form right now. They have taken some setbacks but they know how to bounce back.
Bolton have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the game, on the back of their disappointing Derby defeat to Wigan last weekend.
Midfielder Mark Davies returned from long-term injury againstWiganand featured for the Under 21s on Monday.
Freedman would not confirm whether he would play against Charlton but stated that he is fit for selection.
“He is fit to start the game – I thought he was excellent when he came on the other day,” Freedman said.
“We just need to make sure that it’s the right occasion and Saturday might well be that right occasion.”
Image courtesy of BWFC via YouTube, with thanks.
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