Riley made his Premier League debut in the contest at the Reebok Stadium on November 6, playing from the start and only being substituted in stoppage time as the Trotters cruised to a 5-0 victory. His inclusion had appeared to be something of a gamble on the part of Wanderers boss Owen Coyle, but the 20-year-old's efforts certainly impressed Eagles, who scored two goals in the win. "He wouldn't be in there if the gaffer thought he wasn't ready," said Eagles, quoted in the Bolton News. "That's the problem with people, they maybe don't realise he's worked hard every day since he was young to play in that team and he deserves it. "He did superbly against Stoke and got a standing ovation, which he really deserved. "Now I wouldn't be surprised if he starts against West Brom. He's done really well."
