GRAEME Souness today warned his defence to have their wits about them as Bolton boss Sam Allardyce looks set to bring back striker Dean Holdsworth for tonight's promotion battle at the Reebok.

The experienced striker has missed three games, including last Saturday's FA Cup clash with Rovers, after slipping on ice on the eve of the league match with Huddersfield.

But Allardyce has hinted he may partner the nine goal striker alongside Michael Ricketts in attack after he made an impressive return from injury as a second half substitute in the 2-2 draw against Grimsby on Tuesday.

"He's an old head, he's a cute player and a clever player," warned Souness.

"He knows when to fall over and when to lean in and we know about him because he's been around for a long time.

"So he's a good player but we've got some experienced guys in our team as well.

"They must have played against him before and they'll know what to expect."

Holdsworth is a key figure in Wanderers' plans and Allardyce knows the importance of having him back in the squad.

"I'm extremely glad Dean got back and came through the game with no problems to his ankle," said the Bolton boss.

"He is very important to our side."

Allardyce is again without Paul Warhurst, Ian Marshall and Mike Whitlow who are all injured.

But midfielder Kevin Nolan will return after being rested in midweek.

Bolton will choose from: Banks, O'Kane, Bergsson, Hendry, Elliot, Barness, Charlton, Nolan, Frandsen, Farrelly, Gardner, Hansen, Ricketts, Holdsworth, Passi, Richardson, Morini, Summerbee.