Source: FOOTYMAD
Martinez targets loan market
Following on from the successes of Ali Al-Habsi and Tom Cleverley last season, Latics boss Roberto Martinez is targetting the loan market as he aims to bolster his squad for the new season. It is expected that Ali Al-Habsi will join on a permanent deal from Bolton Wanderers within the next fortnight with the only stumbling block being who will move first in the fee stand off. Roberto Martinez leant first hand how valuable the loan market can be and he told the Wigan Evening Post that he is already targetting his potential additions. Martinez said: “The big loan signings, the players we’re looking at bringing in, we’ve been following them for the past six months really. “With the big players who will make a difference, you need to be working well in advance – and we have been doing just that. “The only limitation we have is that we only have two loans from the Premier League, and we have to be spot on with those. “Anyone can spot a good player, but whether they are good characters as well – and right for your football club – is much harder. “The loan market has been very important for us this season – Ali Al Habsi and Tom Cleverley have played a massive part in what we achieved. “We have a clear idea of who we want next season’s loans to be, and we are ready to work hard to get them here.” There are also rumours that Tom Cleverley may be given the chance by Sir Alex Ferguson of a second season on loan with the Latics. with the retirement of Paul Scholes it was expected that Cleverley may be given further opportunities at Old Trafford. However with Ashley young and Phil Jones recently signed, United are building a strong side and the England under 21 international's future is not 100% clear. A move back to the DW Stadium would be very welcome amongst Latics supporters who valued the contribution of Cleverley in his 25 appearances last season. Image courtesy of Bernard Platt and Wigan Athletic Football Club.
