Bolton chairman Phil Gartside has promised new boss Owen Coyle he can bolster his squad if he likes during the January transfer window. Gartside said: "We have never not backed a manager in the transfer window. We have always done some business and it will carry on that way."

Coyle replaces Gary Megson, who failed to win over a section of the support during his 24-month rein.

Gartside believes the former St Johnstone boss will have no such problems as he played for the club during a successful spell in the 1990s.

He said: "I remember Owen's days at Bolton and he had two and a half fantastic years.

"It was special to me at that time not just as a director but as a supporter. We had some great cup nights and promotions.

"I think the fans will embrace Owen for what he is; he is a very bubbly character, he is infectious. He likes what he sees here and that is good enough for me.

"We hit it off right away and could have finished (our discussions) in five minutes. We did not have anyone else on the list.

"This was the only guy we wanted. You have to remember I recommended him to Burnley in the first place."