Boss Says Davies Performance Will Be Key

Last updated : 27 February 2004 By Mark Heys
Bolton Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce has praised the efforts of striker Kevin Davies and says that the former Southampton man has been a key figure in the team's success this season.

Allardyce says that the performances of the 26-year old striker often get overlooked in favour of star duo Jay-Jay Okocha and Youri Djorkaeff but the Bolton boss beleives that the work ethic of Davies often helps bring out the best in the two players.

"People will always pick the star players in our side but the team functions round Kevin Davies playing well" Allardyce told Football Focus

"He has led the front line on his own this season and when he's in the mood he upsets defenders. And when that happens there is more and more space for the Jay-Jay Okochas and Youri Djorkaeffs to work in."

The Wanderers boss will be hoping that Davies will put in another starring performance during Sunday's Carling Cup Final against Middlesbrough at the Millennium Stadium but he knows that the solid Boro backline of Gareth Southgate and Ugo Ehiogu will not be an easy challenge.