Hutchings upbeat ahead of Dutch trip

With fixtures against FC Zwolle and Den Bosch, the trip is a perfect opportunity to work on fitness and also knit hte squad together in a close environment.

Hutchings told the club's official website: "It's a chance for the new lads to bed in to the squad, and more so than last year, we have already got quite a few new faces on board already.

New Boy Jason Koumas

"It's also a chance for Frank Barlow and myself to take a really good look at them at work, in an atmosphere where there are no distractions at all.

"One of the main reasons that we were so keen to do business early on in the close season was to have the majority of the squad together for the whole of the pre-season programme.

"This has proved to be the case, with perhaps just one or two final pieces in the jig-saw to come in as we build up to the season and the transfer deadline."

Hutchings also spoke of his desire to add new faces to the squad, despite Marlon Harewood's last minute change of heart.

He added: "I certainly am happy with the way things are going. We've brought in some real quality. But, we can always improve, and the club is istill working on bring in more players."

Meanwhile, there is strong speculation linking Andreas Johansson with a move away from the club.

Reports from Sweden suggest the attacknig midfielder has been released from his contract with the Latics and has joined Helsingborgs. Wigan Athletic have yet to release comment.