Match Preview: Morecambe FC vs. Bolton Wanderers

After nine days in Austria, Bolton Wanderers are back in the UK ready to continue their preparations for the new season. Tonight, they face League 2 side Morecambe FC.

Morecambe, founded in 1905, spent the majority of their history as a non league team, before being promoted to the Football League in 2007. Last season, Morecambe finished a respectable 11th.

Morecambe's manager is 39 year old Jim Bentley, who has been in charge since 2011, after spending 9 years prior to that as a Morecambe player.

The Shrimps play their games at the Globe Arena, which opened in 2010 and has a capacity of 6,476 (2,247 seated). Interestingly enough, Bolton were supposed to play in the first game at the Arena in 2010, however site delays prevented that.

The last time Bolton faced Morecambe was in a friendly back in 2012, where goals from Chris Eagles and David Ngog ensured a 2-0 win. Only four players who were involved in that game have remained with the club, they are: Tim Ream, Darren Pratley, Josh Vela and Mark Davies.

The Whites and Neil Lennon will look to build on the performances from the two Austrian defeats, and it's also a good opportunity for fans to get a closer look at new signings Gary Madine and Derik Osede. Emile Heskey is expected to make his pre season appearance, whilst Zach Clough should be available for selection again after being rested for Monday's 4-1 defeat to SC Paderborn.

Stephen Dobbie will also continue to try and impress to earn a contract. I also wouldn't be surprised to see some players from the development squad given a chance with the first team.

Eventhough it is pre season, we'll all be hoping for a better result than Monday's emphatic defeat.