Martinez: No problem with ref Attwell

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez says he has no problem with referee Stuart Attwell ahead of Saturday’s clash at Manchester City.

In the corresponding English Premier League fixture last term, Attwell sent off Wigan captain Gary Caldwell for what he deemed to be a dangerous challenge on Carlos Tevez – a decision that angered the visitors.

Martinez claimed the Argentine should have been the one dismissed having gone in two-footed on Caldwell, and was fined by the FA for his post-match outburst.

Yet despite the history, Martinez does not see a problem with Attwell officiating Saturday’s game.

He said: “I know Stuart has been refereeing very well. He is a referee with a very bright future.”

“However, it was a little bit of a surprise to see him in this fixture.”

“There are too many similarities to what happened last season – it is an evening kick-off, live on the same TV channel.”

“But I am sure he will be composed and at his best, and I am sure there will be no issues after the game.”

Martinez is also confident James McCarthy will be fully focused on the game despite his unwitting role in the major talking point of last weekend’s action.

McCarthy was caught by the elbow of Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney during Wigan’s 4-0 defeat, but has since drawn widespread praise for not making more of the incident.

“It is good that he has got that praise,” Martinez added. “We are all too quick to criticise players when they dive and try to get a decision.”

“Not many times do players get praise when they behave really well.”

“I think James was a true ambassador to the league and football in general. He is a great example to young players.”

“I always believe in football you always get the rewards you deserve, and if he carries on behaving in that manner he will get many good things coming his way.”

Martinez has on-loan Tom Cleverley available again after he was unable to face parent club Manchester United last Saturday, although Emmerson Boyce is still injured.