Roberto Martinez may have reached a milestone of 150 games in charge for Wigan Athletic, but he insists a home win and a step towards survival is more important.
The Latics would move out of the Premier League bottom three with a victory over Swansea City, with ties against Aston Villa and Arsenal remaining this season.
And as his side seeks top-flight survival and a first league triumph over Michael Laudrup’s men in three attempts, Martinez insisted his own achievement will not be a distraction.
“This football club is an incredible place for me and always will be, so I’m proud to reach that landmark, but it’s important we mark it with three points,” the Spaniard told the club website.
“The approach will not be different. We’ll spend as much time focussing on the opposition as we have done in recent games, but be more concerned with our performance.
“Our last three home games have produced really strong displays, winning performances and that’s what we need to continue in the final two games at the DW Stadium.
“Swansea have made history this season bringing home their first piece of major silverware which is remarkable and for which Michael Laudrup deserves huge credit.
“On Tuesday night you’re going to see two footballing sides with similar concepts, both looking forward to playing European football next season which I think is an incredible achievement.”
Wigan will be without Maynor Figueroa for the clash after his season was ended early by a groin injury while Jean Beausejour and Antolin Alcaraz are doubts as they return to fitness.
But encouraged by a draw against Tottenham Hotspur and last weekend’s late win over West Brom, Martinez is concentrating on picking up more points to keep Wigan in the Premier League.
“There are nine points still available and that’s our main focus right now, but it’s certainly pleasing to see a real continuity in our performances,” he said.
“We’re not viewing the game simply as a chance to move out of the bottom three. Each week the table has twists and turns, so for me the only thing to focus on is the opportunity to add to our tally.
“When May 19 comes around that’s when we’ll focus on the table with a points tally that will help us achieve our aims.”
Image courtesy of BBC Sport, via YouTube, with thanks
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