Coyle backs Davies’ claims

Owen Coyle believes Bolton Wanderers striker Kevin Davies would bring a ‘fresh approach’ to the England team.

Davies’ consistent performances for Bolton in recent seasons have yet to be rewarded with an England cap, although he has previously been in a couple of Fabio Capello’s provisional squads.

The 33-year-old appeared to give up hope of ever gaining international recognition in August when he suggested England coach Capello would turn to youth.

However, with Capello facing a striker crisis for the Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro on 12th October, Davies could come under consideration.

Trotters boss Coyle has praised Davies for helping to bring the best out of Johan Elmander this season and feels the striker deserves an international call-up.

“I do not pick the England squad but, at 33, Kevin would bring a fresh approach and give something different,” said Coyle.

“I am taking nothing away from Johan, but Kevin has played a big part in his form this season. He is a great player to have alongside you.”

England are definitely without the injured Jermain Defoe and Bobby Zamora to face Montenegro, while Emile Heskey has rejected the chance to come out of international retirement.