But striker Ched Evans has been quick to emphasise the fact these preparatory games are less about results and more about getting in the right shape, physically and mentally, to enjoy a successful campaign when the Championship gets back underway next month.
“Pre-season has gone well so far, it’s all about getting minutes under your belt and the lads getting going again,” Evans told the Lancashire Post.
“We had a good result against Celtic and created a few chances. Bolton was a bit less fruitful when it came to chances but I thought Wanderers looked pretty good.
“They’re on the back of a promotion and you could see they were buzzing.
“The heat plays a massive factor in these pre-season games as well.
“It is draining, if you’re sat around it all day it just makes you tired sitting in the heat. A few of us, me included, can’t wait for a bit of rain.
“Overall as a group we’re pleased.”
He added: “Every game is going to be tough in pre-season because every player is at a different stage of their pre-season.
“It’ll be, for us, making sure we get what we need out of the game – minutes, the shape, a performance.
“And every minute that we play we’re getting fitter and stronger. You’re getting your style of play and everyone is working on their touch."
We’ve gathered the best of today's Championship rumours below:
1. Stojanovic wants out
Middlesbrough manager Neil Warnock is hoping to sign another goalkeeper this summer with Dejan Stojanovic looking to leave the club. (Teesside Live) (Photo by Martin Rose/Getty Images)
Photo: Martin Rose
2. Watson set to join MK Dons
MK Dons have agreed to sign defender Tennai Watson after he quit Reading, Football Insider has learned. The League One club have finalised a deal with the 24-year-old following a spell on trial. (Football Insider) (Photo by Alex Burstow/Getty Images)
Photo: Alex Burstow
3. Pereira frozen out
Matheus Pereira has been “effectively frozen out” by West Brom manager Valerien Ismael. The Brazilian is said to be a target for Leeds United. (The Athletic) (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Photo: Clive Rose
4. Kenny wants Hourihane at Bramall Lane
Former Sheffield United goalkeeper Paddy Kenny has urged manager Slavisa Jokanovic to follow up on his interest in Aston Villa’s Conor Hourihane, claiming that a deal for the midfielder would be a 'massive coup'. (Football Insider) (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Photo: Eric Alonso