Scharner furious at Comments

A selection of the national media ran a story which claimed, from comments made by Scharner himself, that Wigan were resigned to relegation. The Austrian midfielder now claims his comments were mis-understood.

Scharner has insisted the players are determined to avoid relegation, after seven straight league defeats.

"I think if anything the team spirit and belief is stronger than it's ever been

Paul Scharner

and the players have come together even more in adversity," he stated.

"To suggest there is an air of resignation in the dressing room could not be further from the truth."

The 26-yaer-old, who has been out since mid-december, understands how his comments were mis-understood, and said they were not criticism.

"It is just not something I would do, especially as the spirit among the players is still so strong.

"I told an Austrian journalist there was a little bit of tension in the dressing room because the team had lost a few games, but that is normal when you go on a run without winning.

"It makes me very angry that something has been translated to make me say things which I haven't said. I am totally loyal to my club, to the manager and to all my team mates, and I would never show them such a lack of respect."

Scharner hopes to be back for the league game at home against Fulham on March 17th.