Games against Man City have always been interesting with Wigan having the upper hand over the past few years. Manchester City’s win at Eastlands back in January between the two teams was the first for City since Wigan was promoted back in 2005. Now that the summer transfer window is over, you look at how different their squad is. Emmanuel Adebayor, Carlos Tevez and Gareth Barry are some of the big names which have been brought in by Mark Hughes. City have made a good, solid start to the campaign and have aspirations of breaking into the elusive ‘top 4’. They have got every chance of doing that this season.
The away game at Hull was disappointing. Despite having large amounts of possession, Latics lost 2-1. Two lapses in concentration allowed Hull to take advantage and do enough to win the match. In fairness, it was a must win game for Hull to get their momentum back. They are going to have a long season and with them being at home, in front of their own supporters, they have an advantage. Now though, attention must turn to City with the hops of another upset at the DW.
Wigan Team News
Roberto Martinez could make a couple of changes for the visit of Manchester City. Hendry Thomas, Maynor Figueroa, Jason Soctland and Hugo Rodallega have all had long trips but could take their place in the starting line up on Sunday. Olivier Kapo could be recalled as Martinez looks to re-shuffle his pack.
Wigan Predicted Line Up
Kirkland
Melchiot Boyce Bramble Figueroa
Diame Thomas
N’Zogbia Scharner Rodallega
Scotland
What the Gaffer thinks
"We played 35 times against the top four in Premier League, but we couldn't beat any of them until we played Chelsea. That win has given us great belief’’ Martinez told the Wigan Evening Post.
"It is the only game Chelsea have lost, but there was a big reason why we won that game.
"We won it through our hard work and dedication, the work ethic that the players have, but the fans played a massive role.
"I've been involved with Wigan for a long time but the atmosphere against Chelsea was unique – the most special I've felt at Wigan.
"It would be great if the fans could recreate that again on Sunday.
"They create an intimidating atmosphere at the DW Stadium and that is a massive help.
"When you look at the performance at Hull, you know that if we had have been at home we would have found that confidence to win the game."
"We did some good things against Hull, but the result was very disappointing.
"That inconsistency in our form is where we need to focus most of all.
"We are in a transition period, but I'm very encouraged by what I've seen.
"We are starting to see a pattern in our play that will allow us to grow in the future.
"But the environment in the dressing room, and the fantastic work ethic we have built is brilliant.
"We're still a young group, we're still developing and the signs are very positive ahead of us."
Key Players for Manchester City
Shay Given – On his day, Given can be the best goalkeeper in the Premier League. The squad will have to work hard to beat Given on Sunday.
Kolo Toure – The new captain of City and has led by example. He has added a real touch of quality to the defence since joining from Arsenal and has a good knowledge of the game.
Gareth Barry – Barry could be the signing of the season for City. His vision of passing and tackling ability has given City something that they have been missing for a few years. Liverpool missed out last year and could live to regret it.
Carlos Tevez – Has taken to his new club like a duck to water. The City fans love him and he loves the City fans. Works his socks off and has a knack for scoring important goals.
WIGANER.net Prediction
Expect another committed display from both teams in this derby. Goals should be in good supply but a draw would be a decent result against one of the best City sides in years.
WAFC 2-2 MCFC
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