Wanderers expect Stuart Holden to be back in contention for Sunday’s Lancashire derby against Blackburn Rovers.

The US international has missed the last two Premier League games with a thigh injury but he was back in action at Euxton yesterday as Owen Coyle called his squad in for extra training in a bid to shake off the cobwebs after Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Manchester City.

The Wanderers boss explained that the late decision not to include Holden in the 17 at Eastlands after he had missed the previous weekend’s 2-2 draw with Blackpool was made to avoid him having an extended spell on the sidelines.

“There had been a little reaction, and because of the size of the squad, we couldn’t afford to have Stuart Holden missing for four or five weeks,” he said.

“I need all my players mentally tuned and knowing they are at their best. There was a little nagging doubt in his mind that his thigh wouldn’t last the pace of the match.

“I wasn’t prepared to take that chance and then lose him for what is always a busy period of games.”

Meanwhile, The Bolton News understands that Wanderers are not in the race to sign Leeds United midfielder Bradley Johnson.

Reports had suggested that the 23-year-old could be on his way to the Reebok in January after failing to agree terms on a new contract.

With Andy O’Brien currently on loan at Elland Road and showing an interest in staying on that side of the Pennines, it has also been suggested that a swap deal could be negotiated between the two clubs.

Wanderers’ home game against Everton, originally scheduled for Saturday, February 12, has been put forward 24 hours for television coverage.

The game, to be screen by SKY, will kick-off at 4pm.

The club are also expected to announce reduced ticket prices for the FA Cup game against York City, now confirmed as taking place on Saturday, January 8.

lLast night’s Wanderers reserve team game against Manchester City at Leyland was postponed because of a freezing pitch. It will now take place Tuesday, December 21.