Bolton Wanderers FC

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Riga targets Trotters start

02 Sep 2008 - 11:38:37

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Bolton Wanderers forward Riga Mustapha is ready to fill the boots of injured striker Johan Elmander and play his way into manager Gary Megson's starting line-up.

The Dutch winger has made just two substitute appearances in the Premier League since arriving at the Reebok Stadium from Spanish football during the summer.

Riga deputised for hamstring injury victim Elmander in the Carling Cup third round defeat to Northampton Town last week and now has his sights firmly set on his first league start.

The Ghana-born forward scored 28 goals during three seasons in the Spanish top-flight with Levante.

"I am getting in shape and I thought my performance was okay on Saturday," he said about appearing as a substitute in the goalless draw with West Brom.

"There are a lot of games to come and I started quite late with my preparations, but I think I am now ready to start games if the coach picks me.

"It is his decision but I feel I am now ready to do my best to win games with the team."