Squad Review

The striker has made little impact since his move from Torquay twelve months ago. Latics fans had high hopes for the former Rangers striker after his 23 goal haul for Torquay the season previous.

However just one goal and a number of lack-lusture performances have seen him drop out of the long term picture. The 26 year old will offer the Latics very little next season unless he works very hard on his fitness.

Rating: 1/5.

There is no doubt in my mind as to whether Roberts will be a success in the Premiership.

His first spell with West Brom did not go as planned for both sides and Roberts fell out with manager Gary Megson.

The Grenadian striker managed just 3 goals in 33 appearances that season, and all three goals came before November and he spent the entire season playing as a lone striker. He did managed to score against the Gunners though.

His second spell was on loan at Portsmouth. He managed just the one Premiership goal whilst with the Fratton Park club, but only started three games. Many followers of Roberts also noted a dramatic improvement in his play and felt he was close to Premiership standard.

Third time lucky no doubt this coming season with the Latics. He also has an excellent foil up front with him, in the shape of friend Nathan Ellington.

Rating: 4/5.

Plucked from non-league by Ian Holloway, the Duke has reached the Premiership the hard way. He has played in each of the football league divisions and will grab the opportunity of the Premiership with both hands.

He joined the Latics from Bristol Rovers for a then record fee in excess of £1 million. The Duke scored on his debut in a 2-1 win over Chesterfield and has never looked back.

Injury has perhaps held the striker back as his troublesome shoulder keeps popping out.

Surgery this summer should end those problems and Ellington can’t wait to line up in the Premiership. He has worked very hard on his re-habilitation and has pointed out Rio Ferdinand as the man to beat.

Playing alongside Roberts, Ellington has the opportunity to be lethal.

Many Latics fans believe that Roberts does the donkeywork and Ellington provides the skill and finishing touch required. The Dukes skill and strength is something that defenders will find hard to mark against.

There will be a lot of weight on his shoulders this season, let’s hope the surgeon did a good job.

Rating: 4/5.

Spent last season on loan at Carlisle United and helped them win promotion back into the Football League.

The 20 year old Brazilian could prove to be a wildcard. He impressed everyone in the division during his time with the Cumbrians, scoring 13 goals in just over 30 appearances.

It is unlikely that he will be upto Premiership football immediately however, and is likely to be viewed as one for the future.

Rating: 1.5/5.

Again, although there are four strikers registered, realistically just two (Ellington and Roberts) are up to playing in the top flight. Another two strikers are required before the kick off.

It seems as though Jewell has recognised this and has made steps to bring another quality striker into the club. Fulham pipped him at the post for Heidar Helguson.

The partnership of Ellington and Roberts meanwhile is worth ten million in itself and is something that West Brom, West Ham and Sunderland would love to have in their armoury.