Bournemouth reaction: five positives from a negative

Posted by Ned in Match Reports, News and tagged with , , ,

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* Disclaimer: this writer was unable to watch the Bournemouth match, and instead listened to live commentary and read every match report available after the fact. If you’re looking for a play-by-play, here’s a nice one from This Northern Soul.

1) Henriquez will play a role

Roberto Martinez’s praise for the youngster after the match was effusive. The youngster hit the crossbar with a headed effort, was full of energy, and looks to have probably leapfrogged Mauro Boselli in the pecking order.

2) Figueroa is a good attacking option

The tactical switch to a back four allowed the Honduran to get forward a lot more in the second half to good effect. First, he hit a screamer against the bar, then won the penalty. We’re all hoping the rest has done first choice wingback Jean Beausejour a world of good, but it’s good to know Figueroa can easily move up, and a Boyce-Caldwell-Ramis back three is feasible.

3) A replay down south isn’t such a bad thing

There are a number of players in need of playing time in a lower stakes situation, not least new signings Henriquez and Roger Espinoza. Callum McManaman is on the cusp of a breakthrough and will enjoy further minutes, while players returning from injury like Ryo Miyaichi and Antolin Alcaraz could play some part.

4) Partnerships are important

When he has come on for the senior team in league matches, McManaman has at times looked unsure of his positioning and on a slightly different wavelength than those around him. Despite the team’s flat first half performance, it sounds as though his understanding and interplay with Daniel Redmond was a big positive. In playing them together, Martinez gave each of them a stronger chance of succeeding.

5) Does Nouha Dicko have a role to play?

After being recalled from his loan at second tier Blackpool due to a lack of starting opportunities, he was given a chance to impress in the final quarter of an hour at the DW. With Ryo Miyaichi still injured and Arouna Kone away, there is a concerning lack of raw pace in the team. Can Dicko provide it?

Wigan Athletic vs. Bournemouth: Staking a claim

Posted by Ned in Match Previews, News and tagged with , , , , , , ,

Whilst hardly a mouth-watering affair for the neutral, nor a crucial fixture in an unexpectedly dire league campaign, the FA Cup visit of Bournemouth has brought about a swell of interest and anticipation in the Wigan Athletic community.

Not only have two players been signed since the United match just a few days ago, Nouha Dicko and Rob Kiernan have been recalled from their loans, and Arouna Koné’s departure for the African Cup of Nations has raised all manner of debate about who will fill his shoes — and how. Further transfer rumours suggest the loan arrival of Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Joel is imminent to give Ali Al-Habsi some much needed competition.

While the senior XI looked badly in need of a rest at times during the United loss, the substitutes provided much cause for optimism. Jordi Gomez looked sharp and lively, while Ronnie Stam’s drive down the right resulted in a couple half chances in his short time on the pitch, and Callum McManaman showed some nice touches and offers what only Shaun Maloney seems willing to try — dynamism and dribbling.

Al-Habsi tends to start these matches and his confidence could certainly use an injection of positivity if things go to plan. The centre of defence in front of him should be strong — Gary Caldwell and Ivan Ramis should be given the bulk of the match as they work on their fitness post-injuries, while it is possible Antolin Alcaraz could make his first appearance in a long, long time. What a welcome sight that would be. More likely, though, is a game for Roman Golobart or the recalled Kiernan in place of Maynor Figueroa, who has more than earned a rest.

Roger Espinoza has been officially presented as a Latics player and could make his bow. Though his best work has come as a central midfielder, his left foot and versatility may see him given a chance in the Jean Beausejour left wing-back role. The Chilean’s form has not been as good as last season’s and competition would be welcome. Angelo Henriquez, his countryman, will hope to make his bow up front at some stage, although it’s anyone’s guess who he might play alongside. Franco Di Santo has been used sparingly and doesn’t exactly need a rest — in fact what he needs is a goal. Callum McManaman is almost sure to start, the question is where. And Ryo Miyaichi is back from injury — will he start over Ronnie Stam as a wingback or in a more advanced role.

And what of Mauro Boselli, so excellent in the League Cup earlier this season, but let down by poor service in his single league start of the season in the flat performance at Norwich. Where in the pecking order is he?

At this stage last season, Shaun Maloney had played no part to speak of, and look how important he turned out to be. By the end of 90 minutes tomorrow, we should have a much clearer picture of life without Arouna Koné, and who will be challenging to make that kind of impact this time around.

Chile’s loss is Wigan’s gain as Henriquez joins on loan

Posted by Ned in News, Other and tagged with , , , ,

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News sources have today confirmed the arrival of Chilean international Angelo Henriquez on loan from Manchester United.

The 18-year-old’s arrival is intended to supply cover for Arouna Koné while the Ivorian takes part in the African Cup of Nations over the next few weeks. He has yet to make an appearance for Manchester United, but it has been suggested that Sir Alex was keen to get him some Premier League experience as soon as possible. Indeed, it has been said that it was Ferguson who approached Martinez about the possibility of the loan upon learning that Wigan would have a void to fill — possibly a benefit of Tom Cleverley’s well-documented spell at the club.

Interestingly, Chileans are not too pleased with the move as Henriquez was due to star in the South American under-20 championship but was blocked from traveling by his parent club. Henriquez has an outstanding goal-scoring record at all levels for Chile including 14 in 10 matches for the u-20s, and 1 in 1 for the seniors. It should be noted that youth tournaments of the sort are highly valued in South America and his absence will be big news.

Chile’s loss is Wigan’s gain, and the fixture list could not have been kinder. Saturday’s FA Cup fixture against third tier Bournemouth provides an excellent opportunity for the lad to get a first appearance under his belt, familiarize himself with his surroundings, and show his new club what he can do. Countryman Jean Beausejour and the legion of Latin Americans — not least Franco Di Santo, who was plucked from the Chilean league at a similar age as Henriquez five years ago.

All things considered, he looks a decent loan signing. In addition to his international debut goal from a substitute appearance, he scored 11 in 17 in the Chilean league at age 17. His goal-scoring record suggests more of a centre-forward or poacher type of player, allowing Di Santo to continue in his slightly more withdrawn playmaking striker role.

His arrival does, however, pose a number of questions. Will he leapfrog Mauro Boselli in the pecking order, who has probably been eagerly awaiting the African Cup of Nations for his chance? Will Roberto keep his formation intact with the use of two traditional forwards, or instead opt for Jordi Gomez or Callum McManaman in behind Di Santo? I suspect much hinges on the Chilean’s debut — and the performances of his aforementioned teammates and competitors — against Bournemouth this Saturday.

Wigan Athletic 0 Manchester United 4: A match too far for Wigan

Posted by Ned in Match Reports, News, Other and tagged with , , , , , ,

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The fixture congestion around the festive season would have been exhausting enough for an injury-hit squad on a bad run of form, but after the exertions against Arsenal and Everton, and a vital away win against Aston Villa, the visit of high-flying Manchester United proved a bit too much for Wigan Athletic.

While Alex Ferguson had the luxury of recalling the fresh and rested duo of Robin Van Persie and Chicharito Hernandez, Roberto Martinez gave Arouna Koné his 20st consecutive appearance this season — every league match since his arrival in August — which will also be his last before jetting off to participate in the African Cup of Nations. To highlight the gulf between the clubs, Koné’s replacement in the squad will be Chilean loanee Angelo Henriquez, an 18-year-old Manchester United striker yet to make an appearance.

The game itself wasn’t much of a spectacle. Wigan had the best of the first half hour, controlling possession, limiting United’s strikers, and occasionally threatening themselves. The game turned sharply after a series of unfortunate events. James McArthur’s wayward headed clearance forced Gary Caldwell to scramble the ball away in haste. The ball ended up with Patrice Evra, who darted into the box, scuffed his shot, only for it to fall into his path for a second pop. Al-Habsi made a fine reflex save but the ball fell at Hernandez’s feet for the decisive goal.

A similarly lucky rebound fell to Hernandez moments later, who fed Van Persie. Ivan Ramis had slipped in the build-up but was then outclassed in what was a delightful finish by the Dutchman.

Wigan’s response in the second half was subdued and the team looked a bit drained until Arouna Koné stabbed in against the run of play, but the goal was ruled offside. It did provide some inspiration, however, and Latics enjoyed a good spell before a poor Van Persie free-kick was deflected into the path of Hernandez yet again, for the Mexican to hammer home.

It would not be a United fixture without a refereeing decision going favourably Ferguson’s way, however. Arouna Koné was hauled down by last man Chris Smalling only to be let off with a yellow card in circumstances that the rule book would have guaranteed a red.

Van Persie finished things off with a tap-in after England international Danny Wellbeck, a late sub, pounced on an error by Jean Beausejour.

The Good: 

Both United fixtures are out of the way, no injuries were sustained, or any red cards. The first half hour was positive, before the goal turned the tide. Maynor Figueroa and Emmerson Boyce had decent games despite some patchy defending around them. There is now a break for the first team as FA Cup play begins against Bournemouth this weekend. It will be interesting to witness possible debuts from Henriquez and Roger Espinoza — and the potential returns from injury of Antolin Alcaraz and Ryo Miyaichi. Callum McManaman and Jordi Gomez both looked sharp in their cameos against United and will also be champing at the bit to make an impression.

The Bad: 

Much like the visit to Old Trafford earlier this season, this was a demoralizing experience. Most losses this season have felt close, but not this one — United were clearly the more potent side . Their strength — ruthless, clinical finishing — has been Wigan’s weakness.

After a clean sheet at Villa Park and the happy return of Ivan Ramis, the defense was wobbly and made mistakes. Ramis himself had a poor game and struggled with the quality of the opposition. Ali Al-Habsi looked nervous throughout. Gary Caldwell was substituted early, possibly as a pre-caution. Beausejour was clearly targeted for his lack of pace, as he was by Arsenal’s Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Conclusions:

Glad to have it out of the way. After Bournemouth, the club faces Fulham away and Sunderland at home. The most intriguing storyline will be how Martinez adapts his lineup to cope with Koné’s absence. Franco Di Santo seems certain to lead the line, but Roberto has numerous options to ponder as to who partners him. Mauro Boselli and Angelo Henriquez will be hoping he opts for a direct swap and two up top. Jordi Gomez and Callum McManaman looked useful and keen and could fit in with a slight tactical adjustment. Or we may see a version of the formation used against Everton, with a three-man midfield — probably David Jones — behind Maloney and Di Santo. Four points would be an excellent return from those two fixtures.

Player Ratings:

Ali Al-Habsi: 6 — Nervy. In my opinion, not at fault for the first goal.

Ivan Ramis: 5 — Day to forget. Made a couple errors but generally struggled to contain United’s excellent strikers.

Gary Caldwell: 6 — Made several important blocks, but also struggled with Chicharito’s acceleration. His substitution allowed the pacier Emmerson Boyce to slot into the defense.

Maynor Figueroa: 7 — Covered for the mistakes of his teammates and defended well. May find himself in the wing-back role soon, however, with Beausejour looking in need of a break and Alcaraz’s return imminent.

Emmerson Boyce: 7 — Started at wingback, ended at centre-back. Solid in both roles.

Jean Beausejour: 5 — Has looked off the pace recently. The opposition has become wise to his importance to Martinez’s tactics. United pinned him back with both Ashley Young and Rafael attacking down his side.

James McArthur: 6 — Wigan ended the match with more possession than United, a testament to the Jimmy Macs.

James McCarthy: 6 — See McArthur.

Shaun Maloney: 6 — Quick and sharp, but not incisive on this day.

Franco Di Santo: 6 — Played a nice cross for Kone’s offside goal but not much joy otherwise.

Arouna Kone: 6 — Offside for the one half-chance that came his way, then hauled down by Smalling when he should have been one-on-one with De Gea.

Subs: 

Jordi Gomez: Made a difference when he came on, almost scored a spectacular free-kick.

Ronnie Stam: His energy was a plus once again when he came on. If his crossing was consistent he might keep his place.

Callum McManaman: Quick and positive, waiting for chance.

Aston Villa 0 Wigan Athletic 3: Latics punish fragile Villans

Posted by Ned in Match Reports, News, Other and tagged with , , , ,

There was a vulnerability to Paul Lambert’s young Aston Villa side today thoroughly reminiscent of Wigan Athletic in Roberto Martinez’s first year at the club. Tactical naivety, inexperience and a struggle to adjust to the pace and physical demands of the Premier League to name a few similarities.

What Lambert is trying to do at Villa is not dissimilar in magnitude to Roberto’s undertaking at Wigan — it’s a long-term project. He has bravely frozen out Darren Bent, who must be on a huge financial packet, and put his faith in a promising but inexperienced crop of youngsters. They’ve now suffered three humiliating defeats in a row for a total score of 0-15. But if they survive, and by extension if Lambert is given time to see his project through, it will be intriguing to see where these lads take them. A risky, but refreshing approach. When you look at the more contemporary cash-driven approach of relegation rivals QPR, I know which one I’d like to stay up.

The match, however, should have been over within ten minutes. Ivan Ramis made a very welcome return to the starting lineup and thumped in — albeit unmarked — a Jean Beausejour corner a couple minutes in. Latics piled on the pressure and had a couple half chances before Shaun Maloney was rather violently taken down in the penalty box. It was the second time this week that the Scotsman was denied a stonewall penalty. There was absolutely no question — no debate at all — that this was another penalty denied. It was, at this stage, adding insult to injury as Chris Herd had clearly handballed in the box minutes prior.

Villa’s response gave their crowd hope and they enjoyed the better of the play towards the end of the first half including a goal disallowed correctly for offside, but Latics’ refreshed back line held firm. When Emmerson Boyce combined with Arouna Kone for a goal of great quality in the opening moments of the second half, it was game over.

The Good:

Plenty to be pleased about today. Ivan Ramis could not have made a more encouraging return to the starting lineup. His emphatic finish not only put Wigan in the driver’s seat but added to the tension in the stands. He looked like he’d never been gone, confident and excellent with his distribution. His return also resulted in Boyce’s return to the right wing-back position from which he scored.

Arouna Kone has now scored two in a row, and that boost in confidence might just be the difference between a first touch finish or moment of hesitation against United in the home fixture on New Year’s Day. Unfortunately, his improved form also coincides with a trip to the African Cup of Nations for most of January.

Shaun Maloney was a joy to watch at his former stomping grounds. Aston Villa supporters must have been wishing they could have him back. He was the modern playmaker exemplified in the first half in particular, popping up all over the pitch, creating and extremly unfortunate not to have won a penalty. That Martinez didn’t substitute him when 3-0 off speaks well of his fitness levels. That Villa didn’t heavily mark him as other sides have started to do speaks negatively of Lambert’s preparation.

Finally, a bit of luck with the fixture list. There probably couldn’t have been a better time to face Villa. A very valuable away win that allows for the possibility of a double over direct relegation rivals.

The Bad:

Penalty decisions and the continued cowardice of match officials when it comes to blowing the whistle in favour of Wigan Athletic. The fine Roberto had to pay earlier this season for criticism of match officials is becoming increasingly ludicrous in hindsight, but has effectively silenced him. What is happening to Wigan with these crucial decisions is astonishing. We all read through the lines when Martinez himself said after the Everton match that Latics have to “be even better” to compensate for the treatment they seem to get. But it is a sadly corrupt situation when Alex Ferguson’s assault on Mike Dean in the Newcastle fixture goes unreported by Dean himself — and Martinez, the most decent and principled man in British football is keeping his thoughts to himself for fear of punishment when his team is consistently wronged.

Player Ratings:

Ali Al-Habsi: 7 — Didn’t have very much to do, but the clean sheet is much-needed.

Maynor Figueroa: 7.5 — Very solid, with one last ditch clearance sticking out in the memory.

Gary Caldwell: 7 — Outjumped by Benteke a couple times but good otherwise.

Ivan Ramis: 7.5 — Strong return from injury with a goal to boot.

Jean Beausejour: 7 — Found space down the wing in the first half, faded in the second. Still not at his best, but enjoyed a bit of freedom with Boyce restored on the other side.

Emmerson Boyce: 8 — Scored a cracker and didn’t let the team down in any way. When he plays at wing-back, Beausejour is given more freedom on the left, as Boyce stays deeper. Latics are also stronger on set pieces.

James McCarthy: 6.5 — Did nothing wrong and indeed was involved in a lot of neat footwork in midfield, but we’ve come to expect a greater influence.

David Jones: 7 — Continued his fine run of form but went off with a knock.

Shaun Maloney: 7.5 — A joy to watch.

Franco Di Santo: 6.5 — Lovely ball for Kone’s goal, but it’s not just his goal-scoring statistics that are cause for concern — he doesn’t get in goal-scoring positions. Still, his hold-up play is second to no one’s.

Arouna Kone: 7 — Goal and assist for the Ivorian. Should have scored a second, but he’ll be pleased.

Subs:

James McArthur: Non-descript performance, kept it simple.

Jordi Gomez: Not enough touches to really have an impact.

Callum McManaman: Lively and unlucky with a good shot. This was a perfect match to give him some experience, but sadly only got about 8 minutes of it.