Football Season Guide

Wigan somehow avoided relegation last season. They were beset by all sorts of off the field problems, they started the season in administration, at one point they were under a transfer embargo and in January key staff members left. On the pitch though Leam Richardson did a magnificent job, building a competitive side of free transfers and loans. Survival was secured in the penultimate game of the season. A new era started towards the end of last season when a takeover was completed. The Latics have so far brought in some excellent additions. They have acquired Sunderland’s top scorer from last season Wyke (25 league goals) and their captain Power. Pompey skipper Naylor has also been recruited. Humphrys hit 11 goals in 29 appearances for Rochdale last season and was reportedly interesting several Championship clubs. More players are needed to strengthen the squad, manager Richardson wants seven or eight. The inevitable mass exodus at the end of last season left Wigan with only six senior players under contract. The rebuild has started well but needs to continue. It is sometimes difficult to get new players to gel together quickly, but Richardson showed last season that he can do this. These skills will be tested again with largely a brand new squad of players being recruited. There are some key players from last season still left at the club including dynamic forward Callum Lang.