Sport

Roberto Martinez admits Wigan Athletic need ‘home comforts’ against Tottenham Hotspur to beat relegation

By Matt Simpson

Wigan Athletic will make a welcome return home, according to boss Roberto Martinez, as they look to boost their survivals hopes and complete the double over Tottenham Hotspur.

As the season draws to a close, the Latics find themselves in the relegation zone – three points adrift of 17th placed Aston Villa and safety.

And Martinez, whose side have not played at home since March, is calling on the fans to get behind the players as they fight for Premier League survival.

“Right now we need that home comfort from the DW Stadium,” said he told the club’s website.

“It’s that time of the season once again that we’re all familiar with at our club – the games become even more significant.

“The need for points is very real, so we need the help of our fans this weekend.”

The Latics have only won three of the last 15 against the London club and a victory in their 300th Premier League game would complete their first-ever double over Spurs.

The Wigan boss wants his team to be at their best against a side chasing Champions League football, and believes if his side replicate the form of recent games, points will come.

“Now I think we’re all looking forward to getting back to our home and being as good as we can be against Tottenham,” he added.

“We’ve had highs and lows since our last home match against Norwich City, but there has been a consistency in our performances, and that’s important.

“We’re showing the knowhow on the pitch when it comes to doing what is necessary to win a game – the last two displays against Manchester City and West Ham United were fantastic.

“Taking the chances we are creating is the next step, but if we continue with these levels then the results will come, I’m confident of that.”

Image courtesy of BBC Sport, via YouTube, with thanks

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