HIGH-flying Bolton Wanderers travel to meet struggling Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough tomorrow, looking to notch their eighth win in nine games. But the continued success is not without cost.
Last week's victory over rivals Tranmere was marred by a bad injury to goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskailenen who fell awkwardly after colliding with Andy Parkinson. The Finn, in sparkling form this season, has damaged cruciate knee ligaments and is set to be sidelined for up to six months.
As Jaaskailenen lined up specialist treatment in the USA, Bolton manager Sam Allardyce moved swiftly to sign 37-year-old Northern Ireland goalkeeper Tommy Wright from Manchester City on a three-month loan.
Big Sam said: "Tommy's signing has helped us out of a hole following Julli's injury. It's a big blow for him, but Tommy is an experienced keeper and we need that at the moment as we look for promotion."
Recent signing Nicky Summerbee is likely to make his first team debut against the Owls. The 29-year-old winger, signed from Sunderland, has been battling to regain match fitness. He played a full part in this week's reserve team victory over Burnley, and will probably be named as substitute tomorrow.
Bolton's main injury doubts lie with Gudni Bergsson and Dean Holdsworth. Bergsson has an Achilles problem and could be replaced as both right back and captain by Mike Whitlow, who has returned from long-term injury.
Meanwhile, Holdsworth underwent plastic surgery last week following a gashed lip received in the cp tie with Yeovil. He is expected to be fit and line up alongside sharp-shooter Michael Ricketts.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article