Tonight Wigan Athletic entertain Doncaster Rovers in a match that was rearranged because of Latics’ Community Shield appearance.
Following a disappointing defeat at Bournemouth promotion-chasing Latics will be keen to win at home for the first time since March. Doncaster might well suffer the whiplash. Wigan will be going into the match without the suspended Callum McManaman but can be expected to field an attacking lineup.
Owen Coyle fielded a crowded midfield at Bournemouth, sacrificing width. However, we can expect him to play two wide players tonight in a home match where Latics need three points to push them up the league table. Shaun Maloney may be pushed wide after playing in a central position at the weekend. An alternative would be to use James McLean and Jean Beausejour on the flanks, with Maloney or one of the three holding midfielders being left out.
Given that this is Wigan’s third game in ten days Coyle might want to rotate his squad, but the lack of defensive cover rules out many of his options. With Thomas Royne, Gary Caldwell and Ivan Ramis out through injury the defensive option would be Juan Carlos Garcia, who can play at centre back or left back. The midfield trio of Roger Espinoza Jordi Gomez and Chris McCann – all of whom would be regular starters in most Championship lineups – will be keen to get their chance of game time.
It is the first league game between the two clubs in 16 years. In previous contests Wigan have won 10, and Doncaster 9, with 7 draws. Doncaster come on the back of a 2-0 win over Blackburn Rovers, after losing their first match at Blackpool. Last year they won the League 1 title, winning a remarkable 15 games away from home.
Doncaster come into this match with optimism but they are going to meet a Wigan team that needs the three points and will be keen to impress the home crowd. A Wigan win is on the cards.
LOS THREE AMIGOS 