Boyce looking to tighten defence

Last updated : 21 December 2012 By Paul Farrington

The veteran defender has shown his class and versatility in recent weeks adapted from his right wing back role to a centre back position in a make-shift back three, and taking over the captain's armband in the process.

With first choice centre backs Gary Caldwell, Antolin Alcaraz and Ivan Ramis out injured and now Adrian Lopez added to the list of casualties the Latics defence is looking stretched.

The Christmas fixtures are on the immediate horizon and Boyce is keep for the Latics to tighten up at the back.

Speaking to the Wigan Evening Post he said: “We thought the game at Norwich was there for the taking, but we let ourselves down at the back again. 

"That’s the difference – we seem to have to work so hard for our goals, and then we give them away at the other end.”

Boyce is likely to lead the defence again for the visit of Arsenal to the DW Stadium in Saturday's early kick off.