Coyle to assess Bolton squad

Owen Coyle has vowed to trust the players currently at Bolton Wanderers with the job of guiding them to Premier League safety.

The Scotsman recently decided to leave Premier League rivals Burnley to move to Bolton to replace Gary Megson in the Reebok hot seat.



Coyle takes control of a side sitting in the Premier League relegation places, only four points ahead of rock-bottom Portsmouth. The club's predicament is reflected in their Premier League odds.

Bolton have two games in hand on the majority of their relegation rivals but Coyle's tenure faces a difficult baptism as Premier League title contenders Arsenal are due at the Reebok Stadium at the weekend.

Coyle is currently assessing the state of the squad that he has taken on, but has confirmed he is not considering making a move for Arsenal youngster Jack Wilshere - who he tried to sign for Burnley.

"What I must do is assess the squad I have and it would be wrong of me not to give them all a fair crack - accepted that the transfer window is such a small space of time," said Coyle.

He added: "If there are areas where we can help the team, then that is what we will do."

One player Coyle is looking at is USA international Stuart Holden, who has arrived in Bolton for a week-long trial.

The midfielder is looking for a new club after leaving Houston Dynamo and Coyle could see him as a valuable addition to his new side's battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League. Whatever happens over the next few months, you can bet on the Premier League being exceedingly interesting.