Latics v Everton - Preview

Wigan look to secure their first home victory of the season on Saturday as they welcome in form Everton to the DW Stadium.

The Latics will have Jordi Gomez available after his red card in last week’s defeat to Sunderland was rescinded on appeal, although the return of Antolin Alcarez from injury is unlikely with the away trip to Swansea more of a realistic target.

Jordi Gomez

Manager Roberto Martinez will be keen to secure what would only be his side’s second victory of the season and ease some of the early season pressure, which has seen confidence slide after an encouraging start.

As for the visitors they have started the season on fire and are currently in second place, which is their best ever start to a Premier League campaign. The start has left many wondering if the Blues can genuinely push for a Champions League place next season.

This will be a real test for Martinez who himself is keen to put a few weeks of bad press behind him, speaking on Friday he explained he is happy to move on: "It would be all too easy for me to be bitter and say that, from now on, I won't speak after the game. That would be wrong, because I would be going against the fans and my Wigan Athletic fans, who deserve to know the view that I have on the game. What's important - and I learnt this very, very early - is never question the integrity of a referee or a human being who is trying to do their best."

The Latics will look to end a run of seven games since they last beat David Moyes’ team, but Everton haven’t had it all their own way with three of the last four games ending in draws.

All good run must come to an end at some point and many will have this game down as a win for the visitors but Martinez will be confident that his side can bounce back from recent defeats and make it an uncomfortable afternoon for the Blues and secure victory in the process.