Owen Coyle: Bolton would have quit the FA Cup if Muamba wasn't improving

Bolton boss Owen Coyle has revealed that the club would have withdrawn for the FA Cup had Fabrice Muamba's condition not improved.

The Trotters are set to play their previously abandoned quarter-final with Tottenham on Tuesday evening, ten days after the midfielder suffered a cardiac arrest on the White Hart Lane pitch.

“It has been emotional, absolutely,” Coyle said. “The reason the game goes ahead, is very simply because Fabrice is improving.

“Some of the lads have seen Fabrice briefly. When you visit, you only get 30 seconds or a minute. [Those who have been] have represented the boys and told them how he is.

“I have spoken to the family about the next visit. Every one of the players and staff would like to be there but that can’t happen because of the numbers. So it will be a small representation, maybe a couple will go on behalf of the lads.”

Many players were visibly distressed on the pitch following Muamba's collapse but the Scottish boss believes his incredible recovery will help them stay positive.

Coyle continued: “Last Saturday night a lot of people feared the worst. We are going back to where the events took place and there were a lot of young players – and older ones.

“Some people react differently so there will be a lot of emotion in it. However, it is also a night to say thanks to the people who helped.

“There were the fans – both sets – the Tottenham medical staff, the cardiologist who came out of the stands. It was incredible.”

The 45-year-old also praised Spurs manager Harry Redknapp, who has been in constant contact with Bolton.

He added: “It sums up the man, but Tottenham have been exemplary, from chairman Daniel Levy down. Now it is just about playing the game.”