The Sportsman:
Bolton Wanderers will host Leeds in their first game back in the championship since their relegation in 2016. The Trotters bounced straight back at the first time of asking, sealing second place on the final day.
They managed to do this despite operating under a transfer embargo and their preparations for the Championship have been hindered by the fact that they are still restricted by this embargo and they are expected to struggle this season. They have done well to secure the services of Adam Armstrong on loan who should pose a threat at the top end of their side.
Meanwhile, Leeds’ summer has not gone the way they imagined. Popular manager Garry Monk left and was replaced by the relatively unknown Thomas Christiansen, whose last club was APOEL in Cyprus. It will be well worth keeping an eye on how he does in his first season in England. Striker Chris Wood remains at the club and it is vital to Leeds’ success that he does not depart in the transfer window, he bagged the division’s golden boot last season with 27 goals.
Stat Zone
Bolton
Phil Parkinson has a win percentage of 51.9% as Bolton boss
David Wheater scored nine goals from centre-back last season, Gary Madine top scored with 10.
Bolton finished 2nd in League One last season – 14 points off champions Sheffield United
They have signed Newcastle player Adam Armstrong on loan
Leeds
Thomas Christiansen has a win percentage of 59.2% as a manager
Chris Wood was the top scorer in the Championship last season with 27 goals
Leeds finished 7th last season – 5 points off the play-offs
They have signed former Newcastle player Vurnon Anita this summer
H2H – Bolton have one just one of the two sides last nine meetings, a 5-1 success at Elland Road in 2014.
These two could serve up a Sunday afternoon treat with goals galore, Leeds fans are starting this season unsure of what to expect from their side however Bolton fans can expect a struggle given their transfer ban.
Leeds will be backed by a huge following which could give them the edge in this encounter.
Prediction: Leeds will get off to a flyer under their new boss and leave Bolton facing an upward battle to stay in the division.
