Wigan Athletic Football Club News

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

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25,000

Valencia remains at Wigan

04 Jul 2007 - 10:47:49

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Ecuador midfielder Luis Antonio Valencia will return to Wigan Athletic next season after the Latics took up the option to extend his loan for a second year.

Valencia, 21, is currently away on international duty at the Copa America but will return to the Premier League in time for the start of the new season.

The Villarreal midfielder made 22 appearances last season, but Latics boss Chris Hutchings is predicting a greater impact this term.

"Considering he was in a new country, a long way from home and couldn't speak the language, I thought he adjusted really well," he told the club's official website.

"To be fair, he did excellently in certain games and was a valuable member of the squad.

"But I think he can move up another level this year and become an even more consistent threat.

"He's a lovely lad, a really willing worker and he adds something different to the squad.

"Call it South American flair or a touch of the unexpected, but he combines a really good work ethic with good pace and a bit of quality in areas that can hurt teams.

"He's one of those players who can produce a bit of magic and that's what I want him to do."