Connolly Signs

The 28 year old striker, a team mate of Alan Mahon and Graham Kavanagh from the Irish national team, will be in contention for a starting place in the game at West Brom in just over a week.

Connolly's signing ends weeks of speculation over who the Latics would sign at centre forward, if indeed, they would sign anyone at all.

David Connolly told the club's official website: "The move has all come about very quickly but I'm delighted to be playing in the Premiership at last. Wigan Athletic is a forward thinking and ambitious club, with a great manager.

"When you look at what's been achieved here in such a short space of time it's an incredible story and I'm looking forward to playing my part in the adventure. As soon as I met with Paul Jewell I was impressed with him and with his vision for the club.

"He doesn't want Wigan just to make up the numbers or enjoy the ride. He wants the club to stay in this league and become a force in the division. He'll also push me and get the best out of me and at this stage of my career that's exactly what I need.

"I also know that a club like Wigan is more than good enough to not only to hold their own but push forward as well. Getting goals is crucial at this level and hopefully I'll play my part in providing that. They already have a decent squad with some good strikers and I think I can add something different.

"Obviously I know a couple of the lads from the Ireland team. Graham Kavanagh and Alan Mahon have both said what a good club this is to play for and just how good the team spirit is here."

Connolly will no doubt add a goal threat to the Latics squad, something that has been lacking recently with a depleted forward line after the injury to Henri Camara and the departure of Nathan Ellington.

Manager Paul Jewell was delighted with the addition, he said: "This signing just proves that patience is a virtue. We've had to wait until deadline day itself but I feel we've landed a top quality forward who will give us something different from what we already have.

"David (Connolly) is an intelligent player and can do great things with a football and the thought of him teaming up with Jason Roberts and Henri Camara is very exciting for us."

He also spoke about the possibility of more signings before the midnight deadline. Jewell added: "As far as I'm concerned it's one down but more to come. We're not going to put our feet up now David (Connolly) has signed, in fact it's made me more determined to get our other targets in.

"We have until midnight tonight (Wednesday 31st August) and we will work right up until the very last second if it means I can get someone in to strengthen the squad.

"With the clock ticking it might mean that the loan market is our best bet now. I've approached a number of clubs about the possibility of bringing players here on loan, some have said yes, some have said no and some have said maybe. It's an avenue we're exploring if it helps us get the type of player we are after.

"It's been a really hectic day but now we've had some success it's given everyone a lift. I have a few irons in the fire and a couple of meeting planned between now and midnight, so hopefully we'll get another break."