Bolton Wanderers really are in a sorry state right now.

Once an established Premier League team capable of qualifying for European competition, the Wanderers are now flying down the domestic divisions.

Bolton are currently rock-bottom of the Championship on just 28 points, but that is the least of their problems right now.

The club have debts amassing over £40m and are set to enter into administration next week.

They have not been able to pay their staff or players regularly, resulting in the club boycotting their scheduled game against Brentford.

It was thought that the game would be rearranged, but that has sadly not been the case and Brentford have been awarded a 1-0 win by default.

Failing to partake in a fixture scheduled by the EFL is seen as one of the worst offences a club can commit.

As such, Bolton face the prospect of starting next season in League One on -20 points, per The Sun.

Entering into administration brings with it an automatic 12-point deduction and it is thought that at least eight more will be added for abandoning the game against Brentford.

Birmingham were deducted nine points this season for breaching financial regulations and missing a game is viewed with similar discontent by the EFL.

It makes the grim prospect of double relegation a distinct possibility for Phil Parkinson's side.

Back in 2008, the EFL dished out a 20-point deduction to Luton Town after they breached several financial regulations.

That saw the club fly down the leagues and they eventually ended up outside the Football League.

The EFL are clearly not afraid of imposing such damaging punishments and it really is a concerning time for all those associated with Bolton.

They need to find a buyer and quick.