ADVER Sport takes a look at Swindon Town's next League One opponents Bolton Wanderers.

THE CHALKBOARD

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Bolton Wanderers manager Phil Parkinson

SINCE Bolton Wanderers made the visit to the County Ground back in October, a 1-0 win for the visitors after Brandon Ormonde-Ottewill turned into his own net late on, not much has changed in manager Phil Parkinson’s approach.

In the wake of that fixture, they have gone on to lose just three games, winning 12 and drawing their last two in all competitions.

Bolton have evolved into a slightly more attacking side as the League One season has progressed.

Prior to their trip to Wiltshire, scoring goals was an issue but now they are a more fluid attacking unit, averaging 1.8 goals a game in the league since.

They continue to press high up the pitch with lots of energy whilst using Gary Madine as a hold up man, with the midfield working well off him.

LIKELY LINE-UP

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

MAN IN FORM: JOSH VELA

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Josh Vela (right) tussles with Swindon skipper Nathan Thompson

WHILE Bolton Wanderers’ top scorer with eight goals Zach Clough is a class above most at this level, it is his midfield partner Josh Vela who could cause Swindon the most problems this weekend.

He is also a home-grown player and he is not far behind Clough in the scoring charts, having netted seven times himself this term – his best return in a Bolton shirt.

He has been energetic and is the driving force behind Bolton’s fine form this season - being the man in the middle, everything seems to go through him when Phil Parkinson’s side attack.

Illness permitting, the 23-year-old could thrive against a Swindon side who continue to look to play out from the back as he presses high and closes down well, ensuring the defenders don’t have the time they desire on the ball.

TREATMENT ROOM

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Darren Pratley (white shirt)

BOLTON could be boosted by the return of club captain Darren Pratley from a long-term injury.

The midfielder has been out of action since the first game of the season, a 1-0 win at home to Sheffield United.

Pratley lasted the whole game but was later diagnosed with a fracture in his lower leg, sustained in a challenge with Leon Clarke.

The 31-year-old may only make the bench as he looks to recover his match fitness but even the sight of him back in the squad will provide a huge lift at the already buoyant Macron.

Josh Vela, illness, and James Henry, thigh, are both doubts for the game.

Mark Howard, who started the season as Bolton’s number one, is still absent having broken his thumb.

Mark Davies remains is out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury, while Lewis Buxton has been struggling with a back injury in training and could be a doubt this weekend.

Max Clayton has recovered from a knee injury so will be back in contention.

FORM GUIDE

SAT, Jan 7

FA CUP 3rd Rnd

0-0 DRAW V CRYSTAL PALACE (H)

MON, Jan 2

SKYBET LEAGUE ONE

2-2 DRAW V COVENTRY (A)

SAT, Dec 31

SKYBET LEAGUE ONE

2-1 WIN V SCUNTHORPE (H)

MON, Dec 26

SKYBET LEAGUE ONE

2-1 WIN V SHREWSBURY (H)

SAT, Dec 17

SKYBET LEAGUE ONE

1-0 LOSS V CHESTERFIELD (A)

GOALSCORERS

Zac Clough: 8

Josh Vela: 7

Gary Madine: 6

DISCIPLINE

Keshi Anderson: 1R 0Y

Jay Spearing: 7Y

Josh Vela: 6Y

THE STAT

Bolton have only tasted defeat at home once this season, while Town have only won once on the road.