Bolton boss Coyle stands by Elmander

15 February 2010 20:45
Bolton Wanderers' record signing Johan Elmander retains the backing of boss Owen Coyle, despite missing several chances in the 1-1 FA Cup fifth round draw with Tottenham Hotspur.

The 28-year-old Sweden international has netted just four times this season, but his all-round display against Spurs was enough to satisfy Coyle.

He told the Bolton News: "Johan was outstanding in his general play.

"I don't know if he's trying too hard, but he's getting chances because of his hard work.

"Once he's in there he just needs to show that level of composure and hit the target. If the goalkeeper saves them, then that's all good and well.

"But the more often you hit the target the more it results in goals for you, I know that from my own experience."

Meanwhile, Coyle has offered hope that central defender Gary Cahill could return to action sooner rather than later after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his arm.

He added: "We don't want to get ahead of ourselves, but the clot has dissolved and we'll revisit it in two weeks with a scan with a top specialist in that field.

"Having done that we will see what the picture is from, there but there should be some news in two weeks and hopefully it will be of the better variety."

Source: DSG