Wigan v Newcastle - Preview

The Latics head into their penultimate home game of the season against Newcastle United, on Saturday in search of their third consecutive home victory, which would see them move clear of the drop zone.

Roberto Martinez will be keen to ensure that his side recover from last weekends last gasp defeat at Fulham, and he will be encouraged that his side have their destiny in their own hands.

Hugo Rodallega

That was unthinkable only 6 weeks ago, but an impressive run that has seen the Latics overcome Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal to give them a real chance of survival.

With winnable games against Blackburn and Wolves in their final two clashes, anything that they get from Saturday’s encounter with the inform Geordies would be a bonus.

Martinez will be able to call upon last season’s great escape hero Hugo Rodallega, who looks set to feature from the bench after 7 weeks out. Franco Di Santo is struggling following the knock he picked up at Fulham, which could see Conor Sammon start.  

Maynor Figueroa

The solid backline that has only conceded 12 goals in the last dozen games will be in for a tricky afternoon against the inform Newcastle front men. Papiss Cisse has scored in 6 consecutive games and will be keen to ensure his side remain on track to play Champions League football next season.

Once again this is the biggest game if the season for all concerned with the club, and they will be keen to ensure that they can but some light between themselves and the bottom three and bring an end to Newcastle’s impressive run.