Bolton Wanderers Football Club News

• Nickname:Wanderers
• Founded:1874
• Manager:Owen Coyle

• Ground:Reebok Stadium
• Capacity:28,000

Megson relief for Elmander

24 Nov 2008 - 14:52:25

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Bolton Wanderers boss Gary Megson hopes Johan Elmander's goal in Saturday's 3-1 win over Middlesbrough will ease the pressure on the record signing's shoulders.

Sweden international Elmander joined the Trotters in an £11million deal last summer but, prior to his goal at the Riverside Stadium, had not scored since the opening weekend of the Premier League season.

"I think Johan's performances have pretty much personified how the team has been performing," said Megson.

"He's been doing well but hasn't been getting the goals. At Middlesbrough he got the goal but his performance has been no different.

"Johan, as all centre-forwards, will be judged on the goals that he gets. But I can honestly say I have never been more pleased for a goalscorer than I was (at Middlesbrough).

"We haven't been crowing about it or moaning at him. But there has been quite a lot of questioning from elsewhere on when he was going to start scoring goals.

"I look up and down the Premier League and there are an awful lot of centre-forwards who cost a load more money than Johan who aren't scoring either.

"Johan's performances have been terrific. Whenever we've been given the opportunity to play him he plays because he gives us a great deal."