Bolton will be the visitors to the Crown Ground for a pre-season friendly on Saturday 11 August.

Former Wanderers player Leam Richardson, the Reds assistant, used his contacts to persuade Owen Coyle’s side to face the Reds in a friendly.

Scottish Premier League side St Mirren will also make the trip south to the Crown Ground.

Danny Lennon’s side, who finished eighth in the Scottish top flight last season, will be in town on Sunday 29 July.

The Saints will be the first SPL team to visit the Crown Ground and will provide a stern test for Paul Cook’s side.

"We have some really good games," said Richardson. "Coventry, St Mirren and Blackburn and hopefully there are a couple more to come.

"It’s great that people want to bring their teams here and they will be a big test for us, which is what we need ahead of the season."