Bruce praise for Taylor

Taylor has been recalled to the starting eleven under Bruce replacing the complacent Jason Koumas on the left flank. The move has been paying big dividends for the new Latics boss with Taylor's free-kick prowess causing big problems in opposition defences.

Likening the former Tranmere player's free-kicks to those of David Beckham is a strong endorsement of opinion from Bruce for Taylor who is likely to retain his place in the unfamiliar left wing role against Aston Villa this weekend.

Bruce said: "Ryan's delivery of a ball is absolutely unbelievable. It is as good as anyone I have ever seen, ever worked with or ever been associated with - and that includes a certain gentleman who now plays in America. I know it is a big statement but his set-piece delivery is as good as David Beckham's."

Speaking of the weekend's game with Aston Villa, who currently lie 8th in the table after their 4-4 draw with Chelsea on Boxing Day, Bruce added: "Aston Villa will be a stiff test for us, a real toughie. Martin O'Neill has assembled a good young team, very quick, very athletic, and we'll need to match the workrate and commitment of the last three home games.

"But I'm confident that we can do that and I know my job is to make sure that come kick off, the players are prepared and have the belief that they can go out there and win."

Armand Traore: Linked

There was also a message from the manager for the club's supporters. Bruce said: "I thought they were terrific again on Boxing Day, and even when there was stalemate on the pitch, they kept encouraging the players. We need that support and I'd urge everyone to make as much noise as possible for the players!"

Meantime, the club is being linked with a loan move for eighteen year old Arsenal left back Amand Traore. Bruce has strong links with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger after loaning players such as Niclas Bendtner, Sebastian Larsson, Johan Djourou and Fabrice Muamba from the Gunners.

There have also been links with Plymouth's Hungarian winger Peter Halmosi. The 28 year old told Hungarian newspaper Nemzeti Sport: "Wigan are a big-name club, it would be a great opportunity for me to challenge myself.

"The team is not in a very good position in the Premier League at the moment but it is not a problem for me because I think a couple of won games and the team will be in a better position. But of course I am a player of Plymouth where I am appreciated and I like to play here as well."