Mariappa, Maynard and Johnson turn down Wigan moves

Last updated : 01 February 2012 By Paul Farrington

With regards to Mariappa, the Latics had had a £2.5 million bid accepted by Watford for their vice captain after beating Newcastle's previous offer for the defender.

Mariappa however wasn't prepared to speak to the Latics and has remained with Watford.

Meanwhile Nicky Maynard was the subject of an enquiry from the Latics with Bristol City granting the club permission to speak to the striker. However it is believed it became quickly apparent that Maynard had no intention of moving to the DW Stadium.

Hugo Rodallega was all set to join Fulham for a rumoured £4 million plus Andrew Johnson. However the former Birmingham City and Crystal Palace striker was also unwilling to move to the Latics.

Speaking about the deal to bring Johnson to the Latics, chairman Dave Whelan said: “I’ve no idea why Johnson said no. I think he didn’t fancy coming north. It would have been a good deal for us, but that’s football.”

The rejection from these three players does not bode well for the club's perception away from the DW Stadium and hints that the closing months of the season are going to be difficult if the Latics are to survive.

General