Source: PA
Coyle thrilled by Sturridge impact
Bolton manager Owen Coyle has hailed Daniel Sturridge as the kind of rare talent who has fans out of their seats.
Sturridge has enjoyed a whirlwind start to his loan with Bolton from Chelsea, scoring a goal in each of his four games that has sent his stock soaring and had many singing his praises. The 21-year-old striker this week thanked Coyle for instilling new-found confidence and being allowed to express himself and play his natural game.
Sturridge has been stifled at Stamford Bridge since a £3.5million move from Manchester City in July 2009 due to the calibre and number of forwards ahead of him at Chelsea, such as Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka, Florent Malouda, Salomon Kalou, and now Fernando Torres. Coyle believes he is unleashing Sturridge's potential, and so far the Scot has enjoyed being enthralled by the talented youngster.
"First and foremost he is a natural footballer and a terrific goalscorer, but for me he is more than that," said Coyle. "He has pace, is tricky, is comfortable with both feet, and he is an exciting player. He receives the ball and you think 'You know what? Something is going to happen,' which as a manager is great.
"Even as a fan he is the type of player I love watching because all of a sudden you are out of your seat and you are thinking something special could happen. He is prepared to go and take people on, which I love as well, and he has just been a terrific acquisition for the club.
"But ultimately Daniel has to continue to keep moving forward, he has to keep progressing, to keep being hungry for the goals, and hungry to improve as a footballer. He will know himself there are little bits and pieces where he can improve, and hopefully we can help him achieve that goal."
