Alongside being a popular figure, Kilbane was a big influence on Maynor Figueroa who arrived in Wigan in the Christmas of 2007 on a trial from Depoertivo Olimpia.
Whilst Figueroa will never forget the help offered from Kilbane, he is mindful of the need for three points this weekend.
Figs told the Wigan Evening Post: "I got on very well with him here, and he helped me to settle in at Wigan. It will be very interesting to play against him - but I hope we will win the game, and I think we will."
Figueroa was also delighted to finally defeat one of the big four after thiry five attempts, but appreciates the difficultly of this weekend's encounter.
He added: "It was great to beat a big team for the first time, and a historic day for the club. It will be very difficult on Saturday, but we must go there looking for the three points."
CLICK HERE FOR THE MESSAGEBOARD