Ian Evatt has welcomed a big game to kick off Bolton’s bid to launch a run in the FA Cup.
Wanderers have been handed a home tie against Stockport County in the first round of the competition.
The non-league Hatters will visit the University of Bolton Stadium early next month.
And Evatt is relishing the test against a Stockport side trying to regain its Football League status a decade after relegation from League Two.
“A very good game; a North-West derby and a big club,” said the Wanderers’ boss, who is set to come up against John Rooney and Scott Quigley who were part of the Barrow side Evatt led into the EFL in 2020.
“They’re in a really difficult division to get out of with some big clubs.
“I’m guessing they will sell out the away end and it will be a good fixture for all involved.
“It will be a difficult game but a good game.”
County are currently 10th in the National League and reached the first round proper with a 3-0 win over Northern Premier League side Stamford AFC at the fourth qualifying-round stage.
The first-round tie is scheduled to take place over the weekend 5-8 November with an exact date and ticket details to be announced as soon as possible.