WANDERERS chief executive Neil Hart is confident this weekend’s League One clash with Wigan Athletic can pass comfortably and peacefully.

Trouble has blighted recent meetings between the two neighbouring clubs and extra stewarding and policing have been drafted in to monitor any potential issues on Saturday.

Hart accepts there will be challenges when local passions are involved but after holding talks with the Latics and emergency services in the last week, he believes the UniBol is well prepared.

“I am thankful we have got a very good team of people around me who can deal with some of the issues but while I am sure the weekend will not be without its challenges. I am confident we will get through that,” he told The Bolton News.

“We met with Greater Manchester Police today (Monday) and Mal Brannigan (Wigan’s chief executive) last week to speak about a few things but I think we are in a fairly comfortable position.

“They have sold out their allocation of about 4,000 and we will have a good home crowd as well. It will be well-stewarded and well-policed.

“On behalf of Sharon and the board we would just urge everyone to come and enjoy the game, conduct themselves in the right manner and represent their clubs really well.”

Wigan were allocated 3,924 tickets for the game, which were sold out by last Thursday, and Latics fans will be housed in the 5,000 capacity South Stand.

There have been some complaints that more tickets could have been made available in the Wigan end – but Hart says capping at just under 4,000 was the correct call.

“I could flip it back to the Carabao Cup tie at their place – they had an empty stand. We could have taken more, probably double the allocation. Anyone can play that line,” he said.

“We have had sensible discussions, I think we’re in a good place. They have sold their tickets and we’re not in a position to offer any more but I hope those who come enjoy their afternoon.”

Tickets for Saturday’s game will be at the Category A pricing category of £25 for adults, £20 for Over-65s and Under-23s, £15 for Under-18s and £8 for Under-12s. A booking history is required for anyone to purchase a seat.

Hart has been hugely encouraged by the response from Bolton supporters so far this season and believes keeping Wanderers’ prices in ‘mid-table’ among League One clubs was an important step.

“We don’t want to be the most expensive ticket in the league, or anywhere near it. We wanted to pitch that price and I think that has also reflected in the attendances.”