Wigan v Wolves - Preview

The Latics take on relegated Wolves in their final game of the season on Sunday afternoon, in what is sure to be a day of celebration for all involved.

Antolin Alcaraz’s late header on Monday night secured survival for the Latics, for what will now be an eighth consecutive season.

Hugo Rodallega

Their latest escape is perhaps the most remarkable of them all, only eight weeks ago the team were rock bottom, and faced a daunting run in.

They have picked up an incredible 18 points from their last 8 games, which has seen Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal beaten.

As for the visitors thirteen games ago they were five points clear of Roberto Martinez men and were out of the danger zone. Unlike Dave Whelan the board at Wolves hit the panic button and their drop since Mick McCarthy’s sacking has been alarming.

The Latics will be going out into what will be terrific atmosphere on Sunday afternoon, and will be confident that they can secure yet another victory and finish above Aston Villa.

Wigan have won four of their last six games against the visitors, but will be after revenge following their defeat, in the reverse fixture in back in November.

Roberto Martinez & Dave Whelan

Martinez has a near fully fit squad to choose from, with midfielder David Jones the only doubt. Last season’s hero Hugo Rodallega confirmed this week that he will be leaving the club after four seasons, and will be given a chance to say goodbye to the fans on Sunday.

Consistency in selection over recent weeks has been critical in this incredible run, and Martinez is expected to stick with the same XI, who took to the field at Ewood Park on Monday.

Going forward Captain Gary Caldwell has called for the club to never be in a similar position again, and become a major force in the league.

If they are to do this a lot will depend on how the club act in the market, currently there are a number of players that are catching the eye of other teams.

Martinez needs to be ruthless and clear out the deadwood in the squad, and build up genuine strength in depth.

Anyway these are matters that can be dealt with during the summer and Sunday’s game will be all about celebration.

A few weeks ago not many would have imagined that nothing would be riding on this game.

This side has demonstrated over recent weeks, that if you stick to your principles and play football you can achieve.

Importantly this a chance for the fans to celebrate and thank the players,  fans and players alike have shown in this run in that there is no such thing as a lost cause, enjoy!