Source: Team_Talk
Martinez: Protect creative players
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez wants referees to become increasingly vigilant so that skilful players can perform without fear.[LNB] Martinez's side tomorrow face a Newcastle team who are without the services of Hatem Ben Arfa.[LNB]The 23-year-old midfielder, who is on loan from Marseille, suffered a double fracture of his leg following a challenge from Manchester City's Nigel de Jong that was widely criticised.[LNB]While Martinez does not wish to see tackling outlawed, he is keen for players to act with care.[LNB]He said: "The Premier League has a competitive edge. Tackling is an art and needs to be in the game.[LNB]"You need to be accurate, not reckless, as you risk a red card, letting your team down and letting yourself down.[LNB]"It is a thin line between a player getting injured or winning a challenge. It is important the referees get these decisions right so we can protect the creative players. Those are the types of players the fans want to see.[LNB]"Maybe 15-20 years ago you had footballers playing football. Now you have athletes playing football.[LNB]"That means the speed and the power of every challenge is different. You don't want to see players missing months of a season because of a bad tackle."[LNB]Martinez welcomes back midfielder Tom Cleverley, who is on loan from Manchester United, after he proved his fitness following a knee injury by playing for England Under-21s.[LNB]Martinez said: "Tom is more like a 30-year-old with his awareness of the game. He is ready for the Premier League. We want to enjoy his presence and his football.[LNB]"Tom has always been impressive in everything he has done with us. He was very unfortunate to get a knee injury.[LNB]"I am pleased he had two games with the Under-21s and no effects from them. That means he is fully fit."[LNB]Wigan go into the match against Newcastle on the back of a home victory over Wolves.[LNB]However, Martinez believes Chris Hughton's side pose a stiff test in front their partisan supporters.[LNB]"Once you get relegated it is very difficult to regroup. What they have achieved over the last 15 months is just an example of how things should be done in a challenging position," Martinez said.[LNB]"Their results have been inconsistent but they have a very strong group of players who know what it means to play for Newcastle.[LNB]"You need to match them physically and you have to match their enthusiasm. They are a stronger side than some people imagine.[LNB]"We need to carry on growing, we need to carry on learning and make sure we are ready for Saturday."[LNB]Goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi is set to retain his place in the team after recovering from a stomach virus, but Antolin Alcaraz is doubtful with an ankle problem.
