Source: FOOTYMAD
Martinez thankful for the chairman
After the historic 3-1 victory over Blackpool at the weekend, Roberto Martinez has spoken of the important role played by chairman Dave Whelan. In particular Martinez pointed to the fact that Whelan turned down a sizeable offer from Newcastle United for Charles N'Zogbia in January. Speaking to the Wigan Evening Post, the Latics boss said: “We have to give credit to the chairman for that. “We said at the beginning of the season that we wanted to build something for the future, and to do that you need to sign young players – because we are not in a position where we can compete financially with many other clubs. “We did that by investing in young, talented players, but then it was important to keep the experienced players within that group – the likes of Rodallega, N’Zogbia and Maynor Figueroa. That was massive, and the chairman knows that.” Martinez also revealed that whilst he does not know if N'Zogbia will remain with the club next season, he is hopeful that the French international will stay and develop his career further with the club. “It’s impossible to tell right now," added Martinez, "But what is quite clear is that Charlie is a player that everyone loves to watch, because he has got sensational raw talent. “He is a huge asset as we all know and all I want is for Charlie to enjoy his football in every game that he plays. “For me it is a compliment when people say other clubs are attracted to our players - and it’s not just one there, if you look at James McCarthy and Hugo Rodallega as well as Charles. “They are very special players and all I want is for them to keep on developing and helping Wigan Athletic along the way.”
