Owen Coyle says there is no substance to reports claiming Kevin Doyle could be reunited with former Bolton boss Sam Allardyce at West Ham.
Trotters boss says there is no truth in Hammers reports
Owen Coyle says there is no substance to reports claiming Kevin Davies could be reunited with former Bolton boss Sam Allardyce at West Ham.
It has been suggested that the experienced frontman could soon be on his way out of the Reebok Stadium after falling out of favour.
Allardyce is said to be keen on working with the powerful forward again, having taken him to Bolton back in 2003 and helped to reinvigorate his career.
Coyle is aware of the latest round of rumours, but he says there is nothing to them.
The Scot has sought to assure Davies that he remains an important part of his first team plans, with the Trotters reluctant to see him head for the exits during the winter transfer window.
"Kevin Davies is my captain and a big part of our plans, as he always has been," said Coyle.
Outstanding
"Aside from his footballing abilities, Kevin is an outstanding man.
"He is a leader and a bit of speculation doesn't change that.
"There is nothing factual in the West Ham link. I have had no dialogue with Sam."
For now, Coyle is more concerned about putting Davies' abilities to good use against weekend opponents Manchester United, with the 34-year-old having an important role to play at Old Trafford.
He added: "You need players with big hearts, that are brave enough to get on the ball, pass and move and who can go into arenas like Old Trafford and perform.
"Kevin is one of those."
