However, the fact that he is leaving doesn’t offend me in any way. What has come to my attention is the fact that some Latics fans are bidding him good riddance and are stating he doesn’t care about the club.
In my opinion such criticism is unfair. In fact, I believe Maloney was a brilliant servant to the club and one of the most talented players to ever grace the pitch for Latics. Especially in the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 campaigns, where he provided us fans which some of the best memories.
Starting with his Premier League debut, when he came on as a substitute and assisted Victor Moses’ goal securing a vital draw at Norwich. However, he would score and assist much more important goals.
Shaun converted a penalty at Anfield in a famous 1-2 victory over Liverpool. As well as a historic goal at the DW Stadium when the Latics beat Manchester United 1-0. Not to mention his role in 4-0 drubbing at home to fourth placed Newcastle United, where he again scored.
One of my personal favourites was the 94th minute free-kick at Loftus Road, which earned us a point and effectively sent QPR down. Finally, who can ever forget THAT corner at Wembley, which was headed home by Ben Watson for the famous FA Cup winning goal.
Maloney has provided Wigan fans with some of our greatest memories, some we may never see again. For that very quality and commitment, I think he deserves one last go at the Premier League.
One of our greatest ever players and a joy to watch. Thanks for the memories Shaun and all the best at Leicester.
Twitter: @kieranmaksports