Martinez: Facing a relegation battle

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Wigan Athletic v Man City

Bottom-of-the-table Wigan Athletic can expect a stern test when league leaders Manchester City make the trip to DW Stadium on Monday evening.

Latics manager Roberto Martinez will be hoping for a positive result on home soil after seeing his side suffer a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Sunderland on 3 January.

Matinez is boosted by the availability of winger Albert Crusat, who has recovered from a back injury.

However, he will have to make do without midfielder Mohamed Diame after the Senegal international left the club for African Nations Cup duty.

Young striker Callum McManaman could play some part in the fixture after impressing in the FA Cup defeat at Swindon.

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has also lost two players to AFCON duty in the shape of Kolo and Yaya Toure.

Playmaker David Silva is set to make a return after missing Tuesday’s Carling Cup defeat by Liverpool with an ankle injury.

Striker Mario Balotelli faces a late fitness test as he looks to shrug off an ankle problem in time for Monday’s clash.

Defender Stefan Savic is set to deputise once again as skipper Vincent Company serves the second game of a four-match suspension.