Wigan manager Roberto Martinez believes Bolton's unpredictability makes them a "very dangerous" proposition ahead of Monday night's local derby.
Gary Megson's side head to the DW Stadium having rediscovered their confidence following a resurgent week in which they have secured four points from two matches.
"If you look at their last two games, they've shown they can put in good performances and take points off anyone," assessed Martinez. "They're a side that can adapt to the opposition, who are very solid, well organised and who can score from nothing."
He added: "They've the magic of Lee (Chung-yong) and (Ivan) Klasnic coming alive at the right time, so they are a real threat as a team.
"It probably suits them at times to be labelled as a team who people don't know what to expect and that makes them a very dangerous side."
Wanderers followed up a 3-3 draw with Manchester City at the Reebok Stadium with a crucial 3-1 home victory over fellow strugglers West Ham, ending a run of six Barclays Premier League games without a win.
Those two results at least restored Bolton's credibility, even if Megson has admitted his concern other teams do not fear his side and they lack the intimidation factor.
Martinez rightfully respects Bolton, in particular now they have run into form, with their results last week lifting them out of the bottom three.
Martinez could do with the kind of mini-revival enjoyed by Megson of late as his side have won only one of their last seven matches.
