Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez admitted players will be playing for their Wembley places when they face Queens Park Rangers in Sunday’s relegation six-pointer.
The Latics – who currently sit seven points clear of Harry Redknapp’s Hoops – face Milwall in the FA Cup semi-final six days after their Loftus Road clash.
Martinez insisted the club’s focus was entirely on the league, but believes the competition for places at the DW Stadium is strengthening the side.
“In any performance as a player you play for your next place, that’s the nature of the game,” he told Latics Player.
“Obviously the next game is a Wembley semi-final so it’s fair to say everyone is playing already for their places in the first team.
“There’s been a real competitive feeling not just in the games but also in training. The standards have been huge. I want that to continue until the last game of the season.
“We know that playing at Wembley is a unique experience for any footballer and for the football club as a whole.
“But we see that as something to enjoy and something to look forward to, always understanding that the reality for us is the importance of the league.”
Despite climbing out of the relegation zone with victory over Norwich City last weekend, Martinez – who could field an unchanged side after Callum McManaman and Fraser Fyvie overcame knocks – admitted his players had looked tired.
However, while refusing to underestimate QPR, the Spaniard believes a full week in training has refreshed his players ahead of Sunday’s crucial game.
“The squad is fresher and more energetic than it was after the international break,” he said.
“We know that we really find it difficult after an international break – the energy levels run a little low.
“This period that they’ve had since the game we’ve been able to allow them to recharge their batteries and refind their levels
“There’s a lot of talk about QPR because people get guided by the table but I think this side is a completely different side to the one that started the season.
“They are a team that are starting to build something together and show good momentum, particularly in their attacking play.
“We need to get as many points as we can and, obviously, every away game this season we have performed really well and we have always had opportunities to get points. But we are not going to underestimate this QPR side.”
If selected, Latics skipper Emmerson Boyce will make his 187th league appearance for the club, equalling a record Martinez set from 1995-2001.
Image courtesy of Latics Player, with thanks.
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