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Bolton Wanderers v Wigan Athletic: Lineup predictions

It's time for a Lancashire Derby between two old friends. Apparently the chairman of one of the clubs broke his leg in an FA Cup Final...

Jamie McDonald

When he was manager of Celtic Neil Lennon played Rangers five times a year, sometimes more, so he is no stranger to derbies.  That said, he faces some other dilemmas this Friday night.  Joe Mason and Kevin McNaughton are once again eligible to play.  Darren Pratley is suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season against Cardiff City on Tuesday.  Mark Davies had to be subbed early because of double vision, and Jay Spearing has a hamstring problem.  Adam Bogdan and David Wheater are not ready to return from long-term injuries, but should be after the international break.  Bolton Wanderers are not as decimated by injury as they have been in years past, but it is still a challenge for the ginger Mourinho.

It's also a quick turnaround after the Tuesday match, usually players would have another day to recover.  The big question; Is Josh Vela fit enough to continue at right back?  Here are my predictions:

Andy Lonergan

Josh Vela Matt Mills Dorian Dervite Tim Ream

Liam Feeney Jay Spearing Chung-Yong Lee Mark Davies Neil Danns

Craig Davies

As you can see, I think Davies and Spearing will both be fit enough to play from the start.  And I am expecting a hell of a performance from Spearing.  He was subbed early, then dropped from the starting XI, so he will be very eager to impress a manager who has let everyone know that no one is guaranteed a shirt.  Bring on the Piemen!