Cahill not guaranteed Bolton start

Last updated : 25 March 2010 By Team Talk

Although Cahill was an unused substitute in last weekend's defeat at Everton, the 24-year-old confirmed his fitness by playing the full 90 minutes of a reserve game on Monday.

As far as Cahill is concerned, he is "finished with the reserves" as he now targets first-team action and this weekend's visit of champions and current Premier League leaders Manchester United to the Reebok Stadium.

"Gary played the reserve game the other night and came through it with no reaction," remarked Coyle.

"He's trained well, so he's in consideration along with the rest of the lads."

Cahill, though, may have to bide his time given Bolton's form in his absence as they have taken 11 points from nine league games, and most significantly kept four clean sheets.

"It's fair to say if one of your best players is not available to you, then obviously you're going to miss him," added Coyle.

"Having said that, if you look at how well the lads have done, then we have to be respectful and not pay any disservice to them.

"They've been magnificent, with a number of clean sheets.

"When I came to the club we hadn't had one in the Premier League, but we've had five now in the last 13 games. Everybody has played their part.

"I've said before, it's great to have fantastic individual players at your club, which we have.

"But our strength has been our unity, so yes we've missed Gary as an individual, but when he comes back in he'll play a big part in the team structure, and that's the way we go about it."

Despite the severity of the injury, as there were initial fears he would miss the rest of the season and potentially the World Cup if selected for England, Coyle is far from surprised to see Cahill in the frame so soon.

"There was initial shock, after the diagnosis, and you were worried for Gary first and foremost," remarked Coyle.

"But once everything was explained and what was involved, and what could happen, then his return is bang on schedule. It was the picture that was painted to me."

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Source: Team Talk

Source: Team Talk