WANDERERS boss Ian Evatt says he will make a decision over whether Xavier Amaechi is ready to start against Cheltenham.

The former Arsenal youngster has made several appearances off the bench after recovering from a fractured metatarsal, which he suffered in a pre-season friendly against Preston.

Dapo Afolayan will miss Saturday’s clash with the Robins through suspension and Amaechi would be a natural replacement on the left flank.

But Evatt is wary of rushing the winger back too soon and risking further injury.

“Xav has been banging my door down saying he’s ready to start games,” said the Bolton boss.

“I have to make that decision for the benefit of him and the team, and hopefully he is. We’ll see.”

Cheltenham – who were also promoted from League Two last season – sit 10th in the table following Tuesday night’s 2-0 win at Gillingham.

Evatt praised Michael Duff for what he has achieved since taking charge the Jonny-Rocks Stadium and says they are a “very effective” side.

He added: “Obviously (Ben Tozer’s long throw) is a huge weapon that’s now gone but they play a similar way.

“They are very effective, they know how to play the system really well and they’re well coached.

“Duffer has got them really well organised and he’s doing a fantastic job given what he’s got to work with.

“It’s going to be tough – they’re full of confidence. They just had a good result away at Gillingham – a tough place to go to.

“So yeah, we will roll up our sleeves and go again.”