Because Nathan Baxter has a wrist injury, the Wanderers manager is unlikely to risk leaving a replacement out of the starting lineup at Sixfields.
In the 28 league games that have been played so far, Coleman has only appeared as a backup in 12, with Luke Hutchinson also being selected three times. That meant that in 13 league games, Evatt chose to start one extra attacking player on his bench. This strategy has made some people anxious when team sheets are shown prior to a match.
Evatt acknowledges that Bolton will be under increasing pressure to prepare for every scenario as the season draws to a close and they attempt to secure a top-two finish.
Although Evatt acknowledges that Baxter is still recovering from the ligament injury he sustained against Barnsley, he concedes that having a backup keeper on hand is a prudent move for the time being.
“I’ve made this decision on a weekly basis, on an as-needed basis,” he said to The Bolton News. “We’ll base our choice on what we believe is optimal for that particular game. You are obviously aware that I don’t mind taking risks if I believe the rewards will be worthwhile. However, there is a delicate balance there, which we must try to preserve throughout the whole of the season.
“There has always been a keeper there in the major games and cup finals, if you look back. It’s premeditated; it’s not done carelessly.
“We’ll use the greatest option available to us to cross the finish line, and whether or not it calls for a goalie right now, I believe it was necessary. Nathan is perfectly healthy to play, as you correctly point out, but you need to cover all the bases because this is high-stakes, high-risk sport.
In October, Wanderers defeated Northampton 2-1 at the Toughsheet Stadium. During the first half of the match, Wanderers looked impressive, but in the last thirty minutes, they allowed their opponents back into the game.
Bolton’s goals came from Dion Charles and Randell Williams, and Evatt knew enough about his opposing number Jon Brady to know that the rematch would not be easy.
He declared, “I think we are a scalp for everybody, and Saturday will be no different.” They made a great comeback to League One football, stabilising fast and producing some impressive outcomes.
“When they came down here and I got to meet him for the first time, I really loved hanging out and having a conversation with Jon. He’s a terrific guy and coach.
“I’m sure they’ll be prepared. We must equal all of those fundamentals, including intensity and enthusiasm, after which ideally our quality will prevail.
