Martinez sets Wigan survival target

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has set his Wigan Athletic side a target of 40 points if they are to stay in the Premier League.

The Latics face a tough run of matches over the next month, beginning with a visit from league leaders Manchester United on Saturday.

Martinez’s side are only one point adrift of safety with 27 from 27 games so far this season, and the manager is eyeing a better return from their remaining 11 matches.

“I think everyone has a good amount of points in the bottom eight positions, and that it’s going to go down to the games they are involved in with teams in those positions,” Martinez said.

“I just feel that 40 points is probably going to be the tally needed to stay in the Premier League, which is a big one if you compare it to last year.”

Wigan will be looking to take their first ever point off United in 12 attempts since being promoted to the top flight in 2005.

Despite their horrible run against United, Martinez is confident his side can get something out of Saturday’s encounter.

“I think it’s about ourselves. If we are not perfect, if we are not performing as good as we can you haven’t really got a chance against a side like Manchester United,” he said.

“But I feel that in the form we are enjoying at the moment and with the support of our fans, we have got a real chance to overcome two big challenges, which is the team we’ve got in front of us and historically it will be the first time we’ve got something out of Man United.”

Martinez has almost a clean bill of health ahead of the game, with Emmerson Boyce and Callum McManaman the only doubts.

“Emmerson Boyce is the only one we have to assess and then make a decision if he can be involved,” Martinez said.

“Apart from him, Callum McManaman suffered a nasty cut against Bolton, but he is going to be joining the group tomorrow, so apart from Boycey and Callum everyone is fit and available.”