Bolton finally confirm Coyle as manager

Bolton Wanderers confirmed Owen Coyle as their new manager yesterday, less than a week after he left Premier League neighbours Burnley.

Coyle, 43, who played for Bolton in the mid-1990s, has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal and will take charge following the sacking of Gary Megson on 30 December.

"I am absolutely delighted to be back at Bolton Wanderers," Coyle said. "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 No 1 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. On behalf of everyone at Bolton Wanderers, I would like to say welcome home."

Coyle's first match in charge will be at home to Arsenal in the Premier League on 17 January, following the postponement of their game at Sunderland today as a result of bad weather.

Burnley, who are looking for a new permanent manager, have put first-team coach Steve Davis in temporary charge.