Coyle confident Davies will shine

Last updated : 05 October 2010 By Team Talk

The 33-year-old, who had virtually given up on his chances of an international call-up, was named in Fabio Capello's squad yesterday .

Coyle said Davies' selection was fully deserved and a reward for years of hard work which have gone unrecognised.

"To get that call-up for his country, which I know means an awful lot to him, has been earned through the quality of his play and we are absolutely thrilled for him," said the Bolton manager.

"No-one has given it him easy, he has had to work his socks off against some terrific centre-backs in the best league in the world.

"One thing we all ask in football is if you get an opportunity you have to go and grasp it and he has earned the opportunity.

"If he is given the chance there is no doubt in my mind he will be a terrific addition to the squad."

Coyle revealed he found out prior to the weekend that Davies had been selected in Capello's provisional 'long' squad and although he had no qualms about telling the player immediately he stressed that the focus had to remain on Saturday's game at West Brom.

Davies himself said he thought it was a joke and would not believe it until he received official confirmation an hour before yesterday's announcement.

"We've known since late Thursday/Friday that he was in the long squad but such was his and my focus we kept it to ourselves to concentrate on the game at West Brom," added Coyle.

"Even yesterday, when we both knew, we waited for it to be announced because it is such a big thing for him.

"He has had a tremendous career and shown his qualities year after year and for that call-up to finally come, he just wanted to make sure it was confirmed."

Coyle believes it will be easy for Davies to adapt to life in the England team as he has displayed plenty of versatility in his career.

"Whether you decide to play one, two or three up front Kevin has a tremendous role to play for anyone," he said.

"As a former striker myself I would have loved to have played with that type of player who knocks things down into your path.

"If he is given the opportunity he will be fantastic, no doubt about it."

Davies has conceded he expects to be suffering from a few nerves. But he has vowed to shrug them to one side in an effort to make the most of his chance.

"I just have to go along and enjoy the experience of being involved with the international team and if I get the chance to play I will do my best to impress," he told Bolton's official website.

"It is a really proud moment for me and my family.

"I am sure there will be a few nerves over the next couple of days and it hasn't really sunk in yet, but I am looking forward to this opportunity and I'm going to give it my best shot."

Source: Team Talk

Source: Team Talk