Despite being uncomfortably close to the wrong end of the table, manager Roberto Martinez remains confident that his Wigan Athletic side can make inroads at the right end of the table.

The Latics have struggled this term but Europe is a real ambition at the DW and the Spaniard keeps those aims close to the forefront of his thoughts. He said "We have got a great challenge, staying in the Premier League. There is no hiding that we are in a relegation battle. Very soon we will be fighting for other aims, rather than just fighting to stay in the Premier League. I don't want Wigan to be a team that needs to fight for survival. I want Wigan Athletic to compete for Europe."

Martinez has also backed midfielder Charles N’Zogbia for a chance to play in the summers World Cup – for England. The 23 year-old Frenchman has represented his country of birth at U-21 level but has not played a full international. The length of his career this side of the channel has allowed him to be eligible for dual French and British citizenship which would in turn qualify him to play for both countries.

Martinez believes he deserves a chance with either. "If Charles can be consistent enough between now and the end of the season, he must have a great chance of going to the World Cup – whoever he chooses to play for. He is 'homegrown' now and qualifies to play for England as well as France, but it's his decision.”