Source: PA
Martinez hails youngster McManaman
Roberto Martinez backed Callum McManaman to follow in the footsteps of Leighton Baines after the teenager excelled on his first Wigan start in Saturday's FA Cup third-round victory over Hull.
The 19-year-old stood out in the 3-2 win at the KC Stadium with a performance full of energy and desire, and his delight was obvious as he curled in his first senior goal in the 56th minute.
Not since now Everton and England full-back Baines came through the Latics ranks a decade ago have Wigan produced a quality Premier League player, but Martinez believes McManaman may be about to change that.
The Spaniard said: "Since the first time he participated this season against Arsenal in the League Cup, straight away you could see he is desperate to be on the football pitch.
"And in his first full game he showed a little bit of everything; a real magic touch, really hard work, real quality and a street-wise talent that is really rare to see.
"We're extremely pleased to have a player that has come through the youth set-up. Since Leighton Baines came into the first team we haven't had another youngster and I think it's important we try to give them opportunities because it's a real sign for the future of Wigan."
