It pains me to say that Wigan’s first two games have served to highlight the void which the loss of Charles N’Zogbia has left in the side. A lack of penetration has been evident against both Norwich and Swansea. Although Hugo Rodallega’s lack of fitness and consignment to the bench hasn’t helped matters, more often than not it was N’Zogbia who proved to be the key in unlocking stubborn defences last season. Yet Martinez retains a belief that Jordi Gomez and particularly Victor Moses will compensate for the loss of N’Zogbia this time round.
Admittedly, there have been several promising signs from Martinez’ two chosen wingers in the opening fixtures. Without setting the world alight Gomez looks to have improved from last year, displaying a resurgent enthusiasm in his new right-wing starting berth. Despite gaining several plaudits for his most-recent performance against Swansea, Gomez will need to improve on his overall effectiveness and output going forward to retain his place in the starting line-up. On the other hand, I firmly expect Moses to keep his position on the left wing throughout the current season. Although he has yet to register a goal or assist, he has undoubtedly looked like Wigan’s most potent source of attack post-N’Zogbia.
One positive to take from the opening two fixtures for Martinez must be the assuredness of his defence. Unlike last year, Martinez clearly already has a first-choice back four established in his mind and this has enabled the defenders to develop on field relationships which in turn have led to a tighter defence. Whilst Wigan were often criticised from the fragility on their travels last season, the resilience of their defence was plain to see for all at the Swansea fixture. However, it remains to be seen how the defence copes in the absence of stalwart central defender Antolin Alcaraz, who wants stretchered from the field just half an hour in at the weekend and looks set to miss a significant chunk of the run-up to Christmas.
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