Charlton boss Michael Appleton says Saturday's clash with Wanderers will be “a big test” for his side.

Appleton took charge at the Valley last month, succeeding former Bolton man Dean Holden in the hot seat.

The 47-year-old had overseen a seven-game unbeaten run, including victories against Wycombe, Exeter and Reading in the league.

However, that came to an end on Tuesday night when they were beaten 3-1 at Lincoln despite taking the lead through Alfie May.

Appleton managed Ian Evatt at Blackpool and has been impressed by the job the Bolton boss has done over the past few years.

“Bolton are arguably one of the best, if not the best, teams in the league in what they do," he told Charlton's official website. "It’s a big test and one that I’m really looking forward to.

“Ian played for me when I was at Blackpool and I’ve watched him come through from his Barrow days to taking the Bolton job. If they don’t finish in the top two, I’ll be amazed if they finish outside the top three.

“A lot of hard work has gone on and a lot of credit goes to Ian, his staff, the players and everyone at Bolton because they’ve got a style which is easy on the eye.

"From my point of view, it will be interesting to see where we stand right now at this moment and how far away we are from being one of the top, top teams in the league.

“That’ll give us a good indication going forward and there's an opportunity for the boys in the dressing room to show that they’re more than capable of competing with a side like Bolton.”

Wanderers ran out 2-1 winners at the Valley last season thanks to goals from Aaron Morley and Dion Charles in front of the TV cameras.