Martinez praise for McManaman

Last updated : 10 January 2011 By Paul Farrington

The 19 year old striker made his first start for the Latics in the 3-2 victory over Hull and earn the club a place in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Speaking about the performance of the Liverpool born forward, Roberto Martinez said: "Since the first time he participated this season against Arsenal in the League Cup, straight away you could see he is desperate to be on the football pitch.

"And in his first full game he showed a little bit of everything; a real magic touch, really hard work, real quality and a street-wise talent that is really rare to see.

"We're extremely pleased to have a player that has come through the youth set-up. Since Leighton Baines came into the first team we haven't had another youngster and I think it's important we try to give them opportunities because it's a real sign for the future of Wigan."

Meanwhile, McManaman himself was delighted with his goal. He told the Wigan Evening Post: “No-one’s come through here since Baynesey, and the idea of following in his footsteps is great.

“The gaffer only told me 90 minutes before the game that I’d be playing, and I was made up when I saw my name in the starting line-up.

“It was just a dream come true. I was thinking the night before what it might be like to play, and when I scored I just couldn’t believe it. You can see that the gaffer likes to give youngsters a chance, and hopefully I’ve done enough to give him something to think about.”

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