Bolton Wanderers' season ticket sales pass another big milestone

The incredible response comes as the government review a successful pilot even at Brighton’s Amex Stadium at the weekend, where 2,500 fans were allowed to watch the pre-season friendly against Chelsea.

No supporters have been allowed entry into football stadia since March but hopes are high that a phased return can begin from the start of October.

Wanderers host Bradford City behind closed doors on Saturday in the Carabao Cup – and the game will be broadcast live on radio, streamed on iFollow and covered by The Bolton News on our dedicated Matchday Live blog.

Bolton fans have bought up season tickets in impressive number considering the club will be playing League Two football for only the second time in its history.

Around 8,500 tickets were sold during the entire of last season – and with the early purchase deadline set to expire on Sunday, it is hoped that there will be a final push towards that total in the coming days.

Prices are down on last season, with adult season tickets costing between £349 (East and West) and £275 (North) if bought before close of business on Sunday. A five per cent discount can also be granted for members of the Lifeline Lottery.

Last season’s average gate was 11,157 – the lowest since 1994 when Wanderers were still playing at Burnden Park in the second tier.

Their only season at this level of football was played in front of an average gate of just 5,018, however, and season ticket sales have already surpassed that total with room to spare.

Wanderers have not averaged fewer than 10,000 fans since 1993 – and the fondly-remembered promotion season under Bruce Rioch from the old Third Division.