Bolton Wanderers take on Brentford at the Macron Stadium this evening in what promises to be an intriguing encounter.

The Trotters are rock-bottom of the Championship and are currently five points adrift of safety in their battle to play in the second tier again next season.

Boss Neil Lennon has struggled to lure players to the Macron Stadium and is desperately short in attack, with his side amassing just 11 goals in the league this season.

Brentford on the other hand have been in resurgent form since Lee Carsley was handed the reigns on a temporary basis after the sacking of Marinus Dijkhuizen earlier in the season.

They defeated Nottingham Forest last weekend to climb higher in the Championship table, and they will be looking to keep up their good form with an away win on Monday evening.

FootballLeagueWorld writer Lee Clarke identifies three things to look out for in this evening's encounter...

1) Bolton desperation

Bolton Wanderers need points on the board and they need them fast.

A win on Saturday for Rotherham United has left the Trotters five points adrift of safety already, and tonight would be a good time to kick-start their season.

With money tight and doubts cast over ownership of the club, some sympathy must be offered towards boss Lennon, and the Northern Irishman could really do with a win this evening.

2) Will it be Lee Carsley's last game?

The Brentford interim boss said after last weekend's last-gasp 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest that the game would be his last - he might be wrong.

The club have this afternoon confirmed the appointment of Walsall manager Dean Smith as head coach, but it remains to be seen whether he takes charge this evening, meaning Carsley may have to try to continue his good work.

He has really revived the Bees' fortunes and he will be hoping to lift the club closer to the top-six with a win this evening.

3) An open encounter?

With Bolton being at home, it is unlikely that they will sit back and soak up any Brentford pressure.

The Trotters will more than likely go for the kill this evening and set up in an attacking fashion to give their opposition something to think about.

Likewise, Carsley enjoys his side playing expansive, open football and isn't likely to change that philosophy against Bolton this evening.

Expect a lively, open encounter at the Macron Stadium this evening with goals for both sides.

Bolton and Brentford fans...what are your predictions for the match? Can Bolton kick-start their season and survive? Will Lee Carsley end his reign with another victory? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!