DEFEAT at Walsall last weekend has given Phil Parkinson a chance to go back to the drawing board.

The Wanderers boss has used the last few days to analyse a winless run which actually stretches back five games, including the Checkatrade Trophy game against Everton’s Under-23s.

“We’ve looked at where we could improve – and though there are a few things that have been beyond our control, I think it’s important we look inwards and make sure we are doing everything we can do to get results,” he told The Bolton News.

“We’ve had a good chat with the lads and they know they have got to be more ruthless when they are dominating games, which they have been doing a lot.”

Zach Clough is only likely to start on the bench against Bradford tomorrow after reporting some stiffness in his muscles after training.

“It’s only to be expected because he hasn’t worked with as much intensity as he has in the last four or five weeks.

“He is looking sharper all the time, though, and it’s a huge boost to have him out on the training ground.”