The tribute to the 22-year-defender comes as Cahill and his Trotters team-mates prepare for their Barclays Premier League match against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Cahill looks certain to return to the starting line-up after missing the last three matches because of suspension.

Megson believes the £5m buy from Aston Villa last season gives the side a formidable presence at the back.

"Gary has quality, pace, is decent in the air and good on the ball," said the Bolton manager.

"He also has a great attitude and is as good as any centre half in the country, certainly for his age.

"We knew he was a decent player when we brought him in. That is why we paid about £5m for someone who had only played 17 Premier League games.

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"We have missed Gary. He has done really well for us and is going to get better, no doubt about that."

Megson could also have striker Johan Elmander back for the stiff test against United.

The Sweden international has trained all week after being sidelined with a nagging hamstring injury.

Bolton go into the match on the back of a heavy defeat by Arsenal but Megson is not fazed at the prospect of now facing United.

He said: "The fact we are playing those two sides in successive Saturdays does not particularly help but we will go there and try to put the Arsenal result to the back of our mind.

"Everyone involved in football enjoys going to Old Trafford as that is the magic of Manchester United. It is a big game for us as it is for United and a really attractive fixture and one to look forward to."