"The next half a dozen games going through to January are very important but we feel we have a realistic chance to pick up points and climb the table, this is the aim.
"I'm under no illusion at the size of the task facing me here at Wigan. I always knew it would be tough but I am determined to pull through.
"Mark has done a terrific job at Blackburn, I still keep in touch with him and I'm looking forward to the game."