Roberto Martinez insists victory for Wigan Athletic in their remaining six home games is crucial for their Premier League survival, starting when Liverpool visit this Saturday.
The Latics sit just outside the relegation zone with a superior goal difference to Aston Villa following their 3-0 victory away at fellow strugglers Reading last weekend.
But with six of their remaining 11 games to be played at home – with three on the trot – Martinez has targeted them as must-win fixtures.
“I think it is important that we use our environment to our advantage,” he told the club website.
“When you look at the stats, to have just two wins at home is a poor return, especially if you take into consideration the type of performances that we had.
“It’s time to react as a football club and make sure that we fully focus on the next six homes games, which is a crucial part of the season.”
Wigan were boosted by the return of Emmerson Boyce and Antolín Alcaraz against Reading after long-term absences, and both players are in contention this weekend.
But despite the Latics being unbeaten in their last four home ties against Liverpool, Martinez urged his players to focus on their performance so they are not left empty-handed.
“Liverpool are a very good side and some of their results have been eye-catching in the last few weeks and we need to be prepared to face the good players they have,” he said.
“Obviously they are fully focused on one competition and we know that we are going to see the best of this Liverpool side.
“I want us to be aware of this but going back to our own situation I don’t think we can afford too much to look at the opposition.”
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