Wigan Athletic Football Club News

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

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25,000

Valencia snub boosts Latics

01 Feb 2009 - 10:26:18

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Wigan Athletic boss Steve Bruce has revealed that Luis Antonio Valencia has turned down the chance to join Real Madrid in favour of staying at the JJB Stadium.

Speaking after his side's goalless draw with Aston Villa on Saturday, Bruce revealed his delight that the Ecuador international had opted to resist the lure of the Spanish champions.

Bruce has already lost key duo Emile Heskey and Wilson Palacios to Villa and Tottenham Hotspur in the January transfer window.

"Valencia has turned down an offer from Real Madrid. It only happened on Friday night and it is great news for us," he said.

"He is prepared to stay with us until the end of the season at least which is fantastic.

"We have lost Emile and Wilson and the last thing you want to do is rebuild a team in January. Keeping hold of Antonio was paramount."

Meanwhile, Bruce is hopeful of completing the signing of unsettled Newcastle United midfielder Charles N'Zogbia before Monday's transfer deadline.

"As regards N'Zogbia, we have agreed a fee with Newcastle, we spoke to him on Friday night and he was at the game," he continued.

"There is still a bit to do to get over the line and we will see what develops."