Boyce upbeat about relegation threat

Wigan Athletic defender Emmerson Boyce is remaining optimistic that his team can avoid relegation following improved performances in recent weeks.

Only victory on the final day of last season – away against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium – kept Roberto Martinez’s men in the top-flight, and they may have to do similar this term when they face fellow strugglers Wolves at the DW Stadium on May 13.

However, Boyce said the club are ready for the eventuality of going into the last game with their Premier League status still in the balance, but he is looking to better last season’s last-gasp escape.

“The manager asked us for a big performance because it was a must-win game and the pressure was on,” Boyce told the club’s official website.

“We’ve been in this position before and we know what it’s all about but we don’t want it to go down to the last day like last season – but if it needs to it needs to.”

“All we have to do is concentrate on ourselves, get the results and I’m sure we will be safe. Hopefully we can kick-start our season now, starting with Aston Villa next at the DW Stadium.”

The Wigan defender played a key role in his side’s 2-1 win over Bolton on Saturday, and his 145th appearance for the club in the Premier League equalled the club record, set by Paul Scharner.

“It is a great achievement,” Boyce added.

“Scharner played a lot of games for Wigan so to equal it and get a victory makes it more worthwhile and I’m looking forward to more games to extend the run.”