Coyle backs Cahill for international stardom (From Leigh Journal)

Coyle backs Cahill for international stardom

9:30am Thursday 1st July 2010 in Bolton Wanderers By Marc Iles

OWEN Coyle has predicted that Gary Cahill will finally break into the England set-up in the aftermath of their World Cup disappointment.

The Wanderers star came close to making Fabio Capello’s preliminary squad for South Africa but was eventually overlooked in favour of Spurs duo Ledley King and Michael Dawson.

Cahill had spent 11 games on the sidelines in the New Year following a blood clot scare, yet Coyle believes he was approaching international form by the end of the season.

“I still think he was very unlucky not to be in that squad for the World Cup,” the Bolton boss said. “Dawson and King are great players but I would also put Gary in that bracket.

“He showed such guts to get over his injury and get back to top form. I know people will accuse me of bias or whatever, but from a purely footballing view, I would definitely have given him a shot.”

England have a friendly against Hungary in August, and Coyle hopes his star defender can stay injury-free over the pre-season to stake his claim as England – perhaps under Capello – look to rebuild.

“Regardless of whether there are major changes, or people hanging up their boots, I honestly think that Gary will go on and earn international caps for England,” he added.

“He’s good enough right now, it’s not as if we’re talking about whether he will improve and mature in the future.

“Hopefully, he can hit the ground running this summer and get back into the England squad. Once he gets his chance, I’m positive he’ll take it.”

Coyle was not surprised Jack Wilshere, the youngster he is hoping to recruit on loan again from Arsenal next season, was singled out by Capello as one of the players who could soon break into the international set-up.

“It’s certainly no shock to me to hear how highly Mr Capello rates him.” he said. “Jack will be a top, top player.

“He will need first-team football and I’m sure he’ll be hoping he gets that at Arsenal. But if he doesn’t, then we would absolutely love to have him back at Bolton Wanderers.”