Bolton v Arsenal – Match Preview

All eyes will be on Bolton’s new manager Owen Coyle on Sunday as he bids to keep the ailing club in the Premier League.Coyle’s first task could hardly be more difficult as the reign at the Reebok Stadium begins with the visit of an in-form Arsenal side.

The Trotters find themselves down in 18th place in the table as they have won just one league game since October and Coyle’s immediate challenge is to lift the sense of ambivalence which overshadowed the final days of predecessor Gary Megson’s reign.Just two home league wins all season and no clean sheets in their last 11 top-flight games at the Reebok Stadium has led to dwindling crowds. However, the former Wanderers striker will be hoping to win over the club’s doubters quickly – and what better way than with a win over one of the league traditional big four.”We want to bring everyone together – the players, the staff and particularly the fans.

That will help get the results and create a feel-good factor at the football club,” declared the Scot.Ivan Klasnic has scored five goals in his last six league matches and much will be expected of the on-loan Croatia striker.Meanwhile,

Arsenal will be looking to return to winning ways at a ground where they have enjoyed recent success.The Gunners have won their last three visits to the Reebok in all competitions, scoring three goals on each occasion. They have also won the last six meetings with Bolton in all competitions.However, last weekend’s 2-2 home draw with Everton has led to questions being asked about the north London club’s title chances and their ability to keep up with Chelsea and Manchester United during the second half of the season.

The Arsenal still look a little lightweight in attack with Robin van Persie and Nicklas Bendtner sidelined. Skipper Cesc Fabregas is back following his hamstring problem to pull the midfield strings, but Theo Walcott (rib), Kieran Gibbs (foot), Gael Clichy (back), Jack Wilshere (hamstring) and Denilson (rib) are still missing.

Sol Campbell could be named on the bench following Arsene Wenger’s decision to re-sign the veteran former Gunners and England defender on a short-term deal until the end of the season.

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