Bolton Wanderers face Plymouth Argyle in high attendance clash

A preview of Bolton Wanderers lineup as they host Plymouth Argyle at the Toughsheet Community Stadium with a big crowd expected.

Bolton Wanderers Predicted Lineup for Plymouth Argyle Match

Bolton were beaten 2-0 by Stockport County on opening day but created several chances in the final third. There are no fresh injuries from that result and Sam Dalby could return to training next week after a hamstring issue. A number of first team players gained minutes for the B Team on Tuesday, including Ethan Erhahon and Thierry Gale, which suggests the manager is managing fitness while keeping options alive for the weekend.

Plymouth Argyle also started the season with a defeat, a 3-1 loss at Barnsley. Tom Cleverley is in charge this season after Miron Muslic left to join Schalke, bringing Championship experience from his time with Watford. Bolton and Plymouth have a bit of shared history, with Bolton winning 4-0 at Wembley in the Vertu Trophy final when Schumacher was Plymouth’s opponent. The sides drew 0-0 at the Toughsheet Stadium in a recent league meeting, and Bolton have not lost this fixture since August 2022 at Home Park.

The coming weekend will test Bolton's squad depth and tactical planning. With no fresh injuries, the manager can weigh rotation against momentum, particularly as a large crowd arrives. The inclusion of younger players in midweek suggests a wider pool of options, which could help Bolton press from the front or switch shape if Plymouth push high. Cleverley arriving from Watford era brings a new blueprint for Plymouth, so Bolton may need to adapt quickly if the visitor changes tempo. Historical context adds a layer of pressure because the Wembley win against Plymouth and Schumacher in that era still resonates with both clubs as they face today’s rival. The match is less about fancy plays and more about consistency under pressure and the ability to convert chances when the crowd roars.

Highlights

The result could set the tone for a busy spell ahead