After a turbulent few weeks Roberto Martinez gave fans the chance to put questions and concerns to him going into the final games of the season.
A brave man to take questions after a poor run of results but now it was time for the truth…
Jonathan Jackson started by reassuring fans that there is still a long way to go in the league and the belief should remain.
Roberto on the team tactics
Roberto stated that there was no need to change the team after the results in February. He was keen to point out that the team does not play with one striker. If that was the case Wigan would play 4-5-1 but with the likes of Rodallega, Di Santo and Moses on the pitch, they are three forward players hence the 4-3-3.
Roberto on players
Victor Moses first international call up was the reason behind him not being called up against Swansea. Roberto felt that he was not physically and emotionally ready for the game. Some may argue that Alcaraz and Figueroa were in the same boat as Moses but Martinez was quick to dismiss the similarities by stating that the two were experienced at international level.
Conor Sammon, prior to the Swansea game, had been training well with Franco and therefore justified his selection.
Shaun Maloney has taken 3 months to become physically ready for the Premier League and proved his worth vs. Norwich.
Jordi Gomez is technically gifted and brave going forward with the ball. Roberto defended Gomez’s movement of going backwards due to the lack of options going forward. Roberto was quick to point out the Gomez is the leading goal scorer for the club.
The question was raised as to why Diame hasn’t returned to the squad. Roberto put this down to him and McCarthur fighting for the same position so its a matter of who wants it more and who is willing to work more. After the African Cup of Nations, Diame needs time to get fully fit.
Roberto admitted that currently Hugo Rodallega does not have the same edge as previous seasons and this could be down to transfers and contracts. He stated that Hugo does not want to sign a new contract. He is not only fighting for his own future but the clubs.
For Roberto, Boseli has been the biggest disappointment due to him not settling at Wigan and he has never felt himself. Roberto stated that he will be back next season.
Roberto on Swansea
Roberto didn’t hide the fact that it was the worst performance in a long time. He lamented the teams inability to keep hold of the ball and conceded that the energy levels were low. This inevitably made Wigan play into Swansea’s hands and the result spoke for its self. Roberto also went on to say that the Swansea players commented that the DW was the easiest away environment that they have experienced.
Roberto on goals
Goals are a real concern to everyone at the club. Roberto accepted that the influence and goals of N’Zogbia are missed but he is hopeful that the 3-4-3 formation will bring goals as the season draws to a close.
Roberto on the League
Roberto was keen to point out that the team need to pick up an extra four points after dropping vital points against the likes of Blackburn Rovers.
Roberto on Oman
Roberto believed the mid-season break to Oman brought the team together and has helped contribute to progress.
Roberto on the fans
Roberto praised the fans for the atmosphere at Bolton and was particularly pleased with the passion shown by the fans. He wanted to reassure fans that the Swansea result was a blip and Wigan are on the up.
Roberto on the future
Roberto remains adamant that Wigan will be in the Premier League come next season. The message is BELIEVE.
