Youngsters handed contracts

Last updated : 03 April 2007 By Liam Cooper
Right-back Peter Moore, Central midfielder Lewis Montrose and goalkeeper
Hutchings and Jewell watch training
Russell Saunders have all been handed contracts, to the delight of youth team coach David Lowe.

He said: "For those who have been offered deals, this is an absolutely fantastic opportunity. We are basically telling them that they have the potential to play for the Wigan Athletic first team. We want them to prove to us that we're right to believe in them."

Manager Paul Jewell was also delighted with his new players, adding: "Leighton Baines is proof that young players do get a chance here and what I said to all three of these lads is that if they try their hardest every day in training, listen and take on board the lessons the coaching staff teach them, they will improve as players.

The rest is up to them. I wish them the best of luck but the real hard work starts now!"

Here is a lowdown on the latest Wigan Athletic players.

Russell Saunders

Bury born goalkeeper, 18, who has impressed this season.

He said: "I've been so lucky this season to work under a coach of Gary Walsh's experience and to train all season with Chris Kirkland, Mike Pollitt and John Filan. All of them have been great to me, pushing me to new levels and helped me to build self-belief.

Lewis Montrose

18-year-old central midfielder from Manchester. Once a member of Bolton and Manchester City youth, he is said to be athletic and powerful. Made his first-team debut in the Carling cup game at Crewe.

He said: "To get on the field for the first team at Crewe was a real thrill and when you've had that sort of experience, you want to do everything in your power to get another chance."

Peter Moore

Similar to Baines, Moore began as a midfielder but found his footing as part of the back four. Now a right-back, the 18 year old Liverpudlian hopes to make his mark on the first-team.

He said:"I have been lucky enough to train and play with professionals who have seen it and done it at the highest level whilst I've been here, which has been a fantastic experience. Now I know I need to focus and move up another level."

Good luck to all three, we all hope to see you in a Wigan Athletic shirt soon!