TIM Ream has proved a hit at Wanderers – which has not surprised Owen Coyle.

The US international defender has been on trial at Euxton this week from New York Red Bulls, following a similarly successful spell at West Brom.

Both clubs have used the time to assess whether he could be a suitable transfer target in January.

Ream’s MLS club insist they would not let their man leave, and Coyle understands why they would want to keep hold of him.

“I wouldn’t expect them to say anything less,” he said. “I don’t want to lose Chung-Yong Lee or Stuart Holden. Every club wants to keep its best players.

“I can only talk about how he’s conducted himself and how the players have taken to him.

“We knew he would because he has a lot of similarities to Stuart Holden, and they are qualities I like as a manager. He’s enjoyed his time here.”

Ream has been touted as a possible replacement for Gary Cahill, who is likely to leave the Reebok next month, And the 24-year-old has passed the mustard test with Coyle, who had been an admirer of his from afar for some time.

“He’s come in and trained very well,” said the Whites boss. “He’s a top international and arguably Red Bulls’ best player.

“He has conducted himself very well. He’s someone I’ve been aware of for a couple of years now, knowing the relationships and contacts I have over there.

“There’s no doubt he’s a terrific player and no doubt set for a huge career.”