Steve Coppell has paid tribute to striker Kevin Doyle as Reading moved closer than ever to a place in Europe for the first time. He saw his side rally late on at the Reebok Stadium to secure a dramatic 3-1 victory against Bolton, who are also aiming for a Uefa Cup place.
Republic of Ireland striker Doyle shrugged off a hamstring injury to score a brace, the first from the penalty spot. That took his tally to an impressive 12 goals in his debut Premiership season.
International team-mate Stephen Hunt added a third while substitute Shane Long also played a big part in the win which takes them up to seventh place.
Reading manager Coppell said: "Doyle's not trained all week. I don't think he's firing on all cylinders. But he was still in the right place at the right time and his strength and pace were still there. The only way he'll get his sharpness is by playing.
"I'm determined to pick Doyle until the end to bring out the best in him. The goals will be psychologically healing for him."
Bolton opened the scoring in the 63rd minute when Nicky Shorey deflected a shot from Nicolas Anelka into his own net.
There was not hint of what was to follow but Abdoulaye Meite's careless challenge on Long led to a penalty being awarded and changed the face of the game.
Doyle rattled an unstoppable shot into the corner before scoring from close range with a minute to go. Hunt put the icing on the cake by getting the third when he headed home.
Coppell, however, remains uncomfortable at the prospect of European football even though Reading continue to punch above their weight in the top flight.
He said: "I have always said we are not ready. It could be not good for us. We would have to have a bigger squad which we could not afford and over time could prove to be cumbersome and a hindrance.
"Europe is a feather in the cap but no gravy train."
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