Megson wants Elmander to toughen up

26 August 2009 14:10
Bolton manager Gary Megson has given mis-firing striker Johan Elmander a few home truths and told the Swede it is about time he got used to the physical side of English football. Last summer's £10million signing has not scored in 21 matches, with his last goal coming against Aston Villa on December 13. His performances have not impressed supporters and he has become a target for a fans who expect much more from the club's record signing, while even Megson had to spell it out to the player at half-time of Tuesday night's 1-0 Carling Cup second round victory at Tranmere. "Johan and myself are intrinsically linked and I've told him that," said Megson. "At half-time there were a few strong words and he has to step up to the plate but he looked much more like it. "He got hold of it and must have had three or four opportunities at goal - although I must say he is not the luckiest player in the world. His header from six yards the goalkeeper just threw his arm up in the air and it went over and his shot went around the post but he has to keep plugging away. "He gets criticism because of the amount of money he costs and the way he plays when he sometimes looks a bit mardy but he has got to get over that. "

Source: Eurosport