The Latics lost 1-0 to Cardiff at the DW Stadium but James McClean and Martin Waghorn both suffered controversial decisions as their goals were called offside when replays showed otherwise.

The former Liverpool and Stoke City midfielder signed for the Latics last week on a free transfer from FC Pune City of the Indian Premier League.

The Latics released a statement four days ago saying Garcia, 26, had developed a blood disorder which has since been deemed as leukaemia and the Honduras international is being treated in The Christie.

Manchester’s clubs outside the top flight face a frantic start to February this weekend as they resume their promotion pushes or attempts to get clear of relegation.

Wigan Athletic v Ipswich Town preview along with news of latest transfer activity as 2013 FA Cup Final man of the match Callum McManaman departs

While the FA Cup continues to perplex football forecasters around the country, MM take a look at Greater Manchester’s five league clubs and their prospects for the rest of the season.

Maloney was nearing the end of his contract and after making 79 league appearances and scoring 14 goals, manager Malky Mackay decided the move was in the player’s and the club’s best interests.

Ben Watson scored the winning goal in the FA Cup final for Wigan in 2013 but with his contract up at the end of the season he has decided to explore his options down south with Watford.

Wigan are still searching for their first three points in 2015 and have only won once in their last twelve games as they prepare to welcome Blackburn Rovers.

The 30-year-old made 351 appearances during his career in England and joined the MLS side last summer where he has scored two goals in 14 appearances.

Wigan managed to pull a goal back after falling behind twenty minutes in, but it was Watford who had the last laugh netting their second in the 82nd minute to grab the three points on Saturday.