Team News: New signing could make debut on Saturday, whilst Millwall on the edge of injury crisis
03.09.26, 15:00 Updated 03.09.26, 16:21 4 Minute Read
Matt Bottomley
Bolton Wanderers head back to the capital this weekend, as they face Millwall at The Den on Saturday afternoon.
Following a heart-breaking 3-2 loss to Sheffield United on Deadline Day and now stay on the road for their next game. Just an hour prior to kick-off on Tuesday night, Bolton announced their final signing of the window, Theo Bair, on a season-long loan from Auxerre. Obviously the striker was not involved at the time, but the 27-year-old could be on Saturday,
Before the striker's move to England, Bair played 19 minutes for the French side after a full pre-season, meaning he is already up to speed and ready to go.
“He (Theo Bair) missed the opening game of the season for them because he was suspended, but he's played pre-season games, so he's available and hopefully he'll be involved with us.”Steven Schumacher
With one extra body available up front, it might take a little longer until Bolton get another in midfield, but there is a chance.
Atsuke Ito, who joined last week from KAA Gent, has only trained a handful of times with the full Wanderers contingent and is not yet up to speed. Whilst Ito is physically fully fit, the Japanese international has not had a lot of minutes this summer, leaving Steven Schumacher to make the choice to ease the midfielder into Championship life.
“Friday he (Atsuke ito) didn't train, Monday he trained in a small-sided sort of game, so we've just got to give him time. He hasn't played many minutes, so it takes time with him.”Steven Schumacher
Whilst one midfielder won't be rushed into the team, another could yet be on the pitch on Saturday.
Ruben Rodrigues, who made a surprise early return from injury on Tuesday, will be in the squad again this weekend but likely on the bench rather than in the starting XI just yet. The 30-year-old looked the part in a full pre-season and his cameo at Bramall Lane, but Schumacher will be keen to not injure one of his star players.
Elsewhere, a number of players endured cramp in the loss to Sheffield United, but none who were involved will miss any time, as Bolton look to head to London at almost full-strength.
Only Luca Stephenson remains unavailable.
Millwall's injury crisis
Unlike Bolton, Millwall are facing the reality of being without up to 13 first-team players for this weekend's matchup.
Alex Neil's side lost 3-0 to Wrexham on Wednesday night, potentially losing Josh Coburn and Casper De Norre in the process. In the game, Millwall had to change their formation due to lack of wide players and Kyrell Lisbie and Taryk Arconte both remain doubts for Bolton's visit this weekend.
“We certainly need to have a look internally at what we are doing (with injuries) and how we are doing it because there is obviously an issue there somewhere, and we need to try and get to the bottom of it because it is hampering us when it comes to the games.”Alex NeilMillwall Manager
Despite having 13 players unavailable, there could be some good news for Neil's side. New signing Romain Esse could be available for the game should he get to train this week. The winger would provide some relief, but Bolton will be hoping he can only play a short amount of time.
Elsewhere, former Wanderer, Jordi Osei-Tutu will likely have a role to play in the match. The versatile full-back joined Millwall late in the summer after being released by Bolton after the play-off final win. The 27-year-old has made three appearances for his new side and will no doubt have a part to play when the Whites head to The Den.
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Matt Bottomley A lifelong Bolton Wanderers fan, this club is the reason I began my journalism career. Since sitting in the stands as a kid over 20 years ago, I have gone on to work for the likes of the BBC and The Telegraph before everything led me back to here, to the football club I love.
