Friday 9 November 2012

Latics v West Brom - Premier League Preview

The Latics head into their clash with in form West Brom on Saturday afternoon, looking for their third consecutive league win of the campaign as they kick off a run of three home games during November.
Roberto Martinez’s men responded perfectly to a six game winless run, with back to back wins at home West Ham and away to Tottenham.  
Arouna Kone
November looks set to be pivotal month for the Latics and their ambitions for the campaign, with three home games and a trip to the hit and miss Liverpool, November could see the Latics looking up the table rather than down.
Much is made of the usually poor early season form from the Latics, but recent performances will encourage both Martinez and fans alike. Both the tempo and fluidity of the last two outings have been reminiscent of their form at the back end of last season, during the memeorable great escape.
Martinez talked this week of how he feels he made the right decision in staying with the Latics during the summer and sees this season as the next chapter in the club’s history.
Facing them at the DW are Steve Clarke’s inform West Brom who find themselves in fifth position level on points with Everton who currently occupy the final Champions League spot. Encouragingly for the Latics, the Baggies are winless on the road this season having lost three of their four outings to date.

Ben Watson
Having suffered an injury time defeat at Newcastle a few weeks ago the Baggies will look to give their travelling support something to shout about this weekend. Although they haven't had the best of recent encounters with Wigan, failing to win the last four, including last season’s 1-1 draw.
As for team news Martinez looks set to stick with the XI that won at White Hart Lane last weekend, with Scottish international James McArthur is rated as 50-50, with match winner Ben Watson likely to retain his starting spot.
Ryo Miyachi is one again out with an ongoing groin injury and Albert Crusat and Antolin Alcaraz will miss out, with return dates for both still unknown.
As shown at the back end of last season momentum and confidence is vital for Martinez and his team, he explained that in managing to keep the core of his team together during the summer transfer window has provided him with the perfect opportunity to make clear progress this season.
Games at home this season regardless of the opposition, based on last week’s performance are evidently winnable and will have many of the fans heading to the DW quietly confident this season.

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