After 3 successive defeats in the league, Wigan will look to the West Ham game as an opportunity to get back to winning ways. Defeats to Manchester United, Wolves and Everton mean Wigan currently lie 17th in the table. With 34 games still to play, anything is possible and a win at the weekend could be the spark that the squad needs to push on this season.
West Ham have had an average start to their campaign with one win, one draw and one defeat. Manager Gianfranco Zola has not been crazy in the transfer market during the summer with Luis Jimenez and Alessandro Diamanti the bigger purchases. Carlton Cole is becoming a better player each game he plays with the former Chelsea striker now featuring in Fabio Capello's England squad.
Last season at the JJB, tempers flared with Lee Cattermole and Cole sent off in a heated match which the Londoners won. Now, much changed Wigan will want 3 points to add to the current total of 3 from 4 games.
Wigan Team News
After missing the Everton game last Sunday, Chris Kirkland should return in goal to replace Mike Pollitt. Scott Sinclair could start and Mohamed Diame should continue in midfield. Hugo Rodallega, Hendry Thomas and Maynor Figueroa only arrive in the country on Friday but should go into the side for the game.
Predicted Wigan Line-Up
Kirkland
Melchiot Boyce Bramble Figueroa
Diame Scharner
N'Zogbia Gomez Sinclair
Rodallega
Key Players for West Ham
Robert Green - Has impressed recently in goal for England, making the number one jersey his to lose. One of the best shot stoppers in the league.
Carlton Cole - Has forced his way into the England squad recently and has been more potent in front of goal recently. Will be striking up a new partnership with Diamanti on Saturday.
Alessandro Diamanti - Should make his debut on Saturday since joining in August. Diamanti may need time to settle but will want to make a very good impression on his first appearance for West Ham.
WIGANER.net Prediction
The game will be open and expansive making a draw a very probable result given Wigan's recent form.
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