Coyle hopeful on Klasnic fitness

Published: 09 Sep 2010 - 11:30:36

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Bolton manager Owen Coyle will monitor the fitness of Ivan Klasnic ahead of the Barclays Premier League match against Arsenal on Saturday.

Klasnic, who sealed a permanent move from Nantes in the summer, missed the draw with Birmingham because of a thigh injury.

Coyle said: "What we have to recognise is that Ivan missed a lot of pre-season because of a dispute with his club."

He added: "So we do not want to rush him back until we make sure he is right. But if he is able to train (on Thursday) and Friday he will put himself in contention."

With goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen suspended, Adam Bodgan will make his first start in the Barclays Premier League.

Coyle hopes the 22-year-old Hungarian will rise to the challenge.

He said: "Adam ticks all the boxes. He takes crosses, he is a terrific shot-stopper, he is brave.

"But the proof is in the pudding. He is going to have to deal with some top players at Arsenal and it is a real baptism for him. But it is one he should be looking forward to."