Miyaichi aiming high after debut

Bolton newcomer Ryo Miyaichi has his sights set on a first Premier League goal after making his debut against Wigan at the weekend.

The 19-year-old winger, on loan from Arsenal through to the end of the season, put in a solid performance during the second half of Saturday’s 2-1 loss and was encouraged by his first appearance in England’s top flight.

“I was happy to be playing and I found out more about the Premier League,” Miyaichi told the club’s official website. “But we lost the game so I can’t enjoy it too much.”

After performing well in a closed practice session, Bolton manager Owen Coyle felt that his new weapon was ready for action, deploying him in place of Martin Petrov as the second half kicked off.

“(Coyle) told me to go and play my football and be confident,” Miyaichi said.

“He wanted me to run at the defenders and take them on, so that was what I tried to do.”

Miyaichi’s best chance came in the 85th minute, when a mid-range shot forced a super save from Wigan goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi.

“I could have gotten a goal but the goalkeeper made a good save,” he said.

“If I had scored then everything would be more positive. Next time I’m sure I can score.”

“I have to keep doing what I did against Wigan and hopefully I can get into the team from the start of matches.”

“It’s not going to be easy. I’m learning every day.”