Martinez focused on Wigan survival in crucial Arsenal match

13 May 2013 12:17

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez insists the club's FA Cup triumph will not be a distraction as the fight for Barclays Premier League survival comes down to a make-or-break night at Arsenal on Tuesday.

The Spaniard believes the Latics, who need six points from their last two matches to have any realistic chance of staying up, made a worldwide name for themselves by beating Manchester City at Wembley to lift their first major trophy on Saturday. But he does not think it will affect the mentality of his players as they head to the Emirates Stadium needing a positive result to keep their eight-year top-flight status alive until the final day of the season.

Martinez said: "The history of the football club gets adjusted by days like Saturday but I don't think that is something we have to worry about. It was a moment that changed the perception of our club for millions of people outside the UK and that is really positive but it doesn't need to affect the next two matches."

He added: "To see a team like us deservedly win the trophy playing a powerhouse of world football in Manchester City is one of those incredible stories. The memories will live forever but we need to focus on the next two games."

Wins for Wigan against the Gunners and at home to Aston Villa on the final day of the season would see them survive. Martinez believes that is actually helpful to their cause as they know there is no margin for error.

"I think we are fortunate in terms of results because if you are relying on other people to do your job that doesn't work in football," he added. "We are very fortunate in that we are third from bottom but if we win the six points we don't have to rely on anyone.

"The way we see it is as we expected after the game against Swansea (which they lost 3-2 last week) - it is plain and simple, we need six points and we don't have to look elsewhere.

"It is important that mentally the mindset is right and it is right because of what is happening within the town and what happened at the weekend."

Aside from the FA Cup distraction there is also speculation about Martinez's future as he is one of the front-runners for the soon-to-be vacant Everton job.

However, the Latics boss refuses to be sidetracked by the rumours. "It is the wrong time to speak about individuals," he said.

Source: PA