Coyle appointed Bolton manager

Owen Coyle has been appointed manager of English Premier League side Bolton, the club confirmed on Friday.

The former Wanderers striker replaces Gary Megson, taking immediate charge of the team, although with this weekend’s clash against Sunderland postponed, his first match will be against Arsenal a week on Sunday.

Coyle told the club’s website: “I’m absolutely delighted to be back at Bolton Wanderers. I look forward to the opportunity of bringing the good times back to the club for everyone.”

Bolton chairman Phil Gartside said: “Owen was our number one target and we are naturally delighted that he has returned to the football club as manager.

“He was an inspirational player who leads by example and a great motivator and, on behalf of everyone at Bolton Wanderers, I would like to say welcome home.”

Coyle has reportedly signed a two-and-a-half-year contract.

The delay in confirming his appointment was largely due to Bolton’s ongoing negotiations in thrashing out a compensation deal with Coyle’s former club Burnley.

Caretaker boss Chris Evans had been preparing for Saturday’s game before it was abandoned.

Coyle led Burnley into the top flight for the first time in 33 years after moving from St Johnstone in November 2007, but believes Bolton is a better option.

Burnley thanked Coyle for his achievements after confirming that a compensation package had been agreed with Bolton today.

“The officials of Burnley Football Club would like to place on record their thanks to Owen for his services to the club and contribution to our success,” read a statement on the club’s website.