Wigan Athletic Football Club News

• Nickname:Latics
• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25,000

Valencia agrees Latics move

18 Jan 2008 - 10:50:49

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Wigan Athletic manager Steve Bruce has persuaded Ecuador winger Luis Antonio Valencia to sign a permanent three-and-a-half year deal with the club.

The 22-year-old has been on loan at the JJB Stadium from Villarreal for the last 18 months but, after making 37 appearances for the Latics, now moves to Bruce's side on a permanent basis for an undisclosed fee.

A delighted Bruce told the club's official website: "I knew about him before I came to the club but have seen him at close quarters these past few weeks.

"I now realise just how good he is and to get him signed permanently was one of my priorities.

"I felt it was important to get it done sooner rather than later. He's the sort of player who I believe can play a big role in the Premier League future of this club.

"He has pace, trickery, is strong as an ox and has a great work ethic. Plus he's a really likeable boy.

"Now that his future is sorted out, I want him to focus completely on his football and keep improving because I believe he has the potential to be a top, top player."