Latics Announce Francis Capture

Last updated : 05 August 2005 By Paul Farrington
It is expected that the 26 year old - who has moved in hte opposite direction to Jason Jarrett - will make his debut in the pre-season friendly with Boavista tomorrow at the JJB Stadium.

He has signed a three year deal with the club and can't wait for the Premeirship season to start.

Francis told the club's official website: "The deal has happened really quickly and It's great to have signed for Wigan and be back in the Premiership. There's been a lot of speculation about my future over the summer with a couple of clubs having a look at me, so it's nice all the uncertainty is over now.

"Wigan is a forward thinking and ambitious club and that fits in with the kind of person I am. It was brilliant playing in the Premiership last season with Norwich; it is without a doubt the best and toughest league in world football. Even though we got relegated last season I still enjoyed the experience and think I'm a better player for it.

"I know Wigan will be one of the favourites with the bookies and the so called experts to come straight back down again but I'm convinced we've got what it takes to prove people wrong. If you look at the squad here it's full of talented, hungry players and the manager (Paul Jewell) is one of the best in the game at the moment. Don't forget he kept Bradford up when everyone said it was impossible, so people are wrong to do the same again.

"Leaving Norwich wasn't an easy decision but I hope the fans understand why I've made the move. They're a great club with fantastic supporters and I enjoyed every minute of my time at Carrow Road. I'd like to thank Nigel Worthington for everything he's done for me and I genuinely hope they get promoted this season and join us back in the Premiership where they belong."