Football Season Guide

Bolton Wanderers' survival in the Championship last season can be regarded as a minor miracle given the rock bottom position they were in at the end of September. Bolton survived on the final day to complete the great escape, something that was achieved in spite of their lack of class with team spirit and fine management by Phil Parkinson evident. You sense that it be far more difficult this time around. It has already been a turbulent summer. Financial problems continue to cause uncertainty and there were reports that players have gone on strike as they have not been paid. Certainly Parkinson's signings this summer have been from the bargain basement. They all appear to be other clubs' cast offs. Erhun Oztumer appears to be the only arrival of genuine class. Others such as Clayton Donaldson and Jason Lowe can be regarded as veterans. Donaldson failed to impress at Sheffield United last season and at 34 appears to be somewhat over the hill and unlikely to address a weakness which was lack of goals last season. Bolton though did have an incredible last week before the season starts with Jack Hobbs, Josh Magennis and Luke Murphy all arriving and these veterans should add some much-needed quality. Bolton were well short of quality last season and it remains to be seen whether team spirit and managerial nous can carry them through again. On the evidence presented, you have to say it is unlikely.