Stoke v Wigan Tip

History would suggest that Wigan must be due to go on a season-saving run of form in the very near future. An upturn in fortunes around this stage of the campaign is the only reason why they have graced the top flight for a commendable eight years in a row.

Currently second bottom, the Latics are as under-estimated as ever, but at best odds of 3/1 (Coral) to beat Stoke, this fixture may just be coming at the right time for the visitors. The Potters are in a slump that was very hard to see coming a month ago. The defence has suddenly started to leak with 13 goals conceded in just four Premier League outings. That has resulted in three straight top flight defeats and some head-scratching.

Wigan have also been struggling in the league but there are definite grounds for optimism. They had twice as many shots (20) as Sunderland last time out and more attempts than Fulham before that. It ended 1-1 at Craven Cottage and the previous away outing was a thrilling 3-0 victory at Villa Park.

One final point. Roberto Martinez is actually unbeaten in seven top tier matches against Stoke since he arrived at the DW Stadium. That sort of run can only breed confidence in his players.