SCUNTHORPE United, who knocked Burnley out of the FA Cup this week, are back in the North West tomorrow hoping to inflict similar damage on high flying Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium.

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce, who took his squad to Spain for warm weather training, might have hoped to rotate his players as against Yeovil in the previous round. But Big Sam's hand has been forced with key players injured or ineligible.

The decision by the Jamaican FA to insist on Ricardo Gardner playing in friendly matches this weekend has stunned Bolton. The sparkling midfielder has been a crucial factor in Bolton's success story this campaign.

Gardner's absence could mean a home debut for last month's signing Nicky Summerbee. The winger was a late substitute in the win at Sheffield Wednesday last Saturday. Gareth Farrelly has recovered from a virus and should return to bolster the midfield.

Wily campaigner Colin Hendry will be missing from the heart of the defence. Despite appeals, Coventry City have refused permission for the on-loan star to play once again. Club captain Mike Whitlow has a stomach strain and is sidelined, along with fellow full back John O'Kane who misses out through suspension.

Anthony Barness is fit to deputise, however, while Gudni Bergsson, who might have expected more time to recover from an Achilles niggle, is likely to be forced into action. Bergsson will probably line up alongside Paul Warhurst to offset the threat of Scunthorpe's powerful striker Guy Ipoua.

The good news for Allardyce is that experienced striker Dean Holdsworth has recovered from the facial injury acquired in the last round against Yeovil, and is ready to lead the line.