Milton Keynes Citizen's Sports Editor explains what Bolton can expect from MK Dons on Tuesday evening
Toby Lock, Sports Editor at the MK Citizen, speaks to bwfc.co.uk about what Bolton can expect from newly-promoted MK Dons on Tuesday evening.
bwfc.co.uk: What kind of a game are you expecting on Tuesday?
TL: It’ll be an interesting one, as it could potentially be a real baptism of fire for MK Dons. They’ve not really played a team of significant Championship status yet, after opening the season with games against Rotherham and a team they know well from League One, Preston. Everyone is expecting a difficult game against a high calibre of opponent. It’ll be a test for MK, one which will either provide a stark wakeup call or calm a few nerves.
bwfc.co.uk: MK Dons had a real reputation for scoring goals last season. Will they adopt a similar approach this time round?
TL: Yes. Karl Robinson isn’t one to change his philosophy just because the badge on the sleeve of the shirts has changed. They netted 101 league goals last season and they’ll certainly be looking to attack in games. One problem they may have is that their three leading goalscorers, Benik Afobe, Dele Alli and Will Grigg, have all now left. They haven’t really been replaced yet and the goals this season have come from midfield.
bwfc.co.uk: What are the realistic aspirations for MK Dons for the season? Would survival be classed as a success?
TL: They generally don’t give much away from within the camp. If they were offered survival now I’m sure they’d snap your hands off. I think if they could finish towards the top of the bottom half of the table they’d be more than happy, but realistically, anything well away from a relegation battle.
bwfc.co.uk: Where do you see the game being won and lost on Tuesday?
TL: I think the wide areas are certainly worth keeping an eye on. The long-serving Dean Lewington and Jordan Spence really like to bomb forward from the full back areas and support the wide men in the 4-2-3-1 formation. That could be a problem though should Bolton look to utilise any pace they have in the wide areas.
bwfc.co.uk: And a prediction?
TL: It’ll be tough. I think both the players and fans would be delighted with a draw. I’ll go 1-1.
Toby Lock is on Twitter, @Citizen_Toby.