Source: Team_Talk
Martinez praises N'Zogbia application
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez feels Charles N'Zogbia has won his team-mates over after almost walking out on them last month.[LNB] Martinez has revealed the Frenchman needed to convince the squad his heart was still at the club after his proposed switch to Birmingham collapsed.[LNB]The 24-year-old was on the brink of moving to St Andrew's after the clubs agreed a fee but was unable to agree personal terms.[LNB]N'Zogbia had been agitating for a move in the days leading up to the transfer deadline but has refocused on life at the DW Stadium since it passed.[LNB]The former Newcastle winger proved the difference as he came off the bench to inspire Wigan to a last-gasp comeback win over Preston in the Carling Cup third round.[LNB]"Charles has always been like that," said Martinez after the 2-1 home victory.[LNB]"Once the window shut he was focused, concentrated and wanted to do what he could to help the team.[LNB]"He has had to win the players over and he has done that.[LNB]"I have said before that Charles has been a victim of what I feel is a very unfair situation for players.[LNB]"The transfer window is a time when players need to think about their futures and their families and that shouldn't be going on while the competition is going on.[LNB]"The authorities should look into that. It is not only Charles, it was Javier Mascherano (at Liverpool) - every dressing room in the country has been affected.[LNB]"But what I am proud of is his reaction since the window closed. He has been patient and worked to high standards on a daily basis."[LNB]Wigan had looked to be heading out as Championship strugglers Preston clung onto a lead given them by Keith Treacy in the 23rd minute.[LNB]It could have been worse for the Latics as Paul Coutts twice hit the woodwork for the visitors.[LNB]But after a largely ineffective first-half display, Wigan were much more purposeful after the break and were rewarded when Jordi Gomez equalised after 87 minutes.[LNB]Preston may at least have deserved extra-time but N'Zogbia settled the tie when he broke from deep in injury time and combined with James McCarthy to net the winner.[LNB]Martinez added: "There are a couple of lessons to pick up.[LNB]"If you approach a game like we did in the first half you are going to get heavily punished.[LNB]"You need to start developing a real belief and enjoy working like we did in the second half. When the boys work in that manner they enjoy their football.[LNB]"The team showed a clear desire to win a football game and get through to the next round."[LNB]Martinez will now hope the result can kickstart his side's Barclays Premier League campaign.[LNB]Athletic have endured a tough start having collected just four points from their five games.[LNB]After bringing in several new faces in the summer, Martinez saw greater signs of cohesion as the game wore on and wants that to continue at Birmingham on Saturday.[LNB]"It is a good achievement to get this far," the Spaniard said.[LNB]"But more than anything as the competitions start to develop, it is another game which helps the squad to increase competition for places.[LNB]"That is what is pleasing me. In the last 15 minutes we looked like a team.[LNB]"We are a long way from where we want to be and fulfilling the potential we have but the second half fills you with pride."
