Wigan Athletic manager Uwe Rosler believes his team must embrace the underdog factor tonight and regain that ‘magic momentum’ against Nottingham Forest.
Results so far in the season have not gone Wigan’s way and the boss wants energy, pace and grit from his players against the former European champions, currently second in the Championship table.
Rosler emphasized how his side will really need the crowd behind them for this huge test of character against a side they took six points from last season.
“It’s crucial how we start the game, we have to get the crowd behind us and be on the front foot,” Rosler told Wigan’s website.
“We have to try and get the balance better between competing, doing the ugly part of the job and playing.”
Wigan have a fully fit squad available for this clash, which could see the return of key forward Callum McManaman after he picked up an injury against Ipswich last week.
Rosler knows how effective Wigan’s attack needs to be tonight.
“Players like that should be protected more and we missed him. I hope he will be okay for the game.”
It will be a crucial game for Forest to perform in as well as they look to maintain their run of form under new manager Stuart Pearce.
It hardly matters though what quality of side Wigan face at this stage – they must be courageous in facing the challenge and give the game everything.
“In life, there are two possible reactions when faced with challenges. Either you wilt, or you stand up and fight harder,” said Rosler.
“As a group, we are all fighters and this is the reaction I expect from my staff and the players.”
Main image courtesy of Wigan Athletic via YouTube, with thanks.
