GARY Megson believes Fabrice Muamba can be the new Patrick Vieira.

The former Arsenal trainee was seen as a natural successor to the brilliant Frenchman at the Emirates before Gunners manager Arsene Wenger allowed him to leave for Birmingham in July 2006, initially on loan.

But, after the all-action midfielder’s outstanding performance in Wanderers’ 3-1 win at Middlesbrough, Megson is hopeful the 21-year-old can emulate Vieira’s success. “He’s one of the best players running with the ball and he reminds me of Patrick Vieira when he does that,” said the Bolton boss.

“He breaks the play up, sees things and intercepts a lot and closes down really well. He fills gaps where there is trouble and that’s why we bought him.

“We didn’t have the energy levels we felt needed for the Premiership last season but we have that now.”

Muamba’s combative approach and driving runs have made him an instant hit at the Reebok, following his £5million summer move from the Blues, and a regular with England Under-21s.

But one area Megson would like to see him improve on is in front of goal. The Congo-born player has yet to score this season, wasting two superb chances to open his account against Boro to go with his spectacular miss against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

“We would like him to start chipping in with goals because he’s got that within him,” said the Wanderers manager.

“He just gets flustered in front of goal but that will come shortly.

“He needs to settle down a bit in front of goal. He missed two chances and an even simpler one at Manchester United, but I don’t think there was another player out there who could have got into that position.”