Elmander goals are a bonus, says Coyle (From Leigh Journal)

Elmander goals are a bonus, says Coyle

1:30pm Monday 15th March 2010 in

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OWEN Coyle hailed striker Johan Elmander’s return to goalscoring ways but admitted: It does not matter whether he scores or not.

The Swede hit the target for the first time in 12 games as Wanderers crushed neighbours Wigan at the Reebok.

The superb victory lifted Bolton up to 13th in the table and eight points clear of the relegation zone. It also included Elmander’s first Premier League goal in 2010 and just his third of the season.

Coyle has stuck by the misfiring 28-year-old through his barren run — and he insists the club record-signing’s influence can be measured in more than just goals.

“I would love Johan Elmander to be scoring every week and all strikers are judged on goals,” said the Bolton boss.

“But I know what he brings to my team and how I want to play. The first thing I ask of my players is ‘How hard are they going to work for me?’.

“We’re not at a level where we can have any luxury players. We need players totally committed and who come off the pitch not being able to give any more.

“I’ve shown the trust I have in him because I play him every week ahead of good players like Ivan Klasnic and Riga.

“I know what he brings to the team and so do his team-mates. He has such an appetite and zest for hard work.

“He’s had his critics because he’s not scored as many goals as people would like, but I know what he brings to my team and that’s why he plays.”

And Coyle is confident Elmander’s fifth goal of the season – and his first in the league since December 5 - can spur the forward on for the remainder of the campaign.

He added: “Johan got his rewards [against Wigan] but he’s worthy of more goals than what he’s had.

“I’ve had extensive chats with Johan on the training ground and tried to reinforce the belief I have in him. I’ve told him it will turn for him.”

Kevin Davies, from the penalty spot, Fabrice Muamba and substitute Matt Taylor were also on target.