Coyle out to Hurt Villa's Bid

Bolton Wanderers boss, Owen Coyle, has his sights set on beating Aston Villa, and dragging them deep into the relegation mire. The former team are outsiders for the win in the bookmaker odds. 

The Trotters are four points adrift of safety, ahead of Tuesday night’s clash at Villa Park, six points behind Villa with a game in hand. Bolton also have a game in hand on all their relegation rivals.

Coyle believes the six-pointer could shape Bolton’s season, and wants his players to grasp the opportunity.

"It's massive. If we get a positive result then the whole picture changes very quickly", said Coyle.

"We're not relying on anyone. We're relying on ourselves, and if you want anything done then you're better doing it yourself, and that's what we have to do."

The initial fixture was postponed, in March, in the aftermath of Fabrice Muamba's cardiac arrest at White Hart Lane. Coyle admitted it has been a testing season.

"It's been the most challenging season I've known. We're in the best league in the world, and huge uncontrollables [sic] go against you. Of course it makes it more difficult", he added.

"This year has been a freak season, starting in pre-season with the cruciates, and the leg breaks, and everything else, but we've dealt with it all. We've got five games to decide our own fate."

Bolton are without a win since beating Blackburn Rovers on March 24, and will need to hit form soon to prevent a return to the second tier for the first time since 2001.

Following the crucial clash in the Midlands, Bolton travel to Sunderland and London, where they will face Tottenham Hotspur. They complete their campaign at the Reebok Stadium, with a game against West Bromwich Albion, before ending their season at Stoke City. 

Coyle will be hoping his side can dig deep one last time to secure their Premier League status. Bolton are currently third favourites for the drop in Premier League betting.