Down at the JJB however and things are much less optimistic with a thread-bare squad pushed even further to the limits. Here is what the man who stands between the club and a squad of more than fifteen players had to say.
Mr Whelan is quoted: "I was very disappointed with the effort and attitude of a few players last Saturday. It was a big letdown. Much better was expected.
"I simply cannot stand watching a team not giving 100 per cent. "Wigan's trademark has been a never-say-die attitude and a desire to fight to the death.
"This has been lacking and I don't want to see a repeat of the Portsmouth performance. I speak with Chris Hutchings a couple of days after every game and I merely offer my opinions and views.
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"Emile Heskey has proved a huge loss, not only for us but for England as well. Not having him up front has been an immense blow. Mario Melchiot has been a very influential captain, and we saw at Manchester United just what can happen when he isn't on the field.
"We've also missed the influence of Antonio Valencia out wide, and a number of players have been forced to play out of position. Saturday's performance wasn't good enough but we just have to battle on. And when our key players return, I'm convinced that we will see a dramatic upturn in form.
"Their return will make such a difference and help us perform as we did at the start of the season. I was concerned with what I saw on Saturday and I know that Chris Hutchings was very disappointed. But it's not easy because we have a limited number of real quality players."
Whilst fans are grateful for the lower ticket prices they will expect even cheaper prices still should the club go down.
But it goes without syaing that the club have a limited squad when Whelan wouldn't open the club's cheque book in the summer. Our only hope is that there is a change of policy come January.
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