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Martinez confident over left-back cover
Roberto Martinez is adamant Latics have sufficient defensive cover despite both of their recognised left-backs being crocked.
Maynor Figueroa looks set to be missing for the rest of the year after damaging knee ligaments at Burnley last weekend.
And back-up Erik Edman is also currently sidelined after being badly concussed during a recent reserve team clash with Blackburn.
Charles N'Zogbia dropped back from midfield when Figueroa was forced off against the Clarets.
And the Wigan boss admits he would have no qualms about starting the former Newcastle man in the back four again.
Martinez told the Evening Post: "It's very hard to carry more than two left-backs in a squad, because it is such a specific position, and
unfortunately we now have injuries to both of them.
"But Charles has played in that position before, and we also have other options within the squad such as playing a centre-back there –
depending on what we need.
"As we saw at Burnley, Charles did really well there and is a great option to have.
"He played in that position for Newcastle, and knows it inside out.
"The way he performed against Burnley showed us what his strengths are.
"He gives you a completely different outlet, and it is an option we will certainly consider."
While Edman is expected back early next month, the prognosis is less positive concerning Figueroa, who has been ruled out for up to three months.
The Honduran has been an ever-present since making his first start against Manchester United in May, 2008, and Martinez admits he will be a big miss for the team.
"Maynor could be out for between eight and 12 weeks, depending how quickly he can recover," the Spaniard continued.
"But we need to remember he is a very strong man and a very fit
person, and hopefully he will recover quicker than everyone expects.
Full story in today's (Wednesday) Wigan Evening Post ...
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Weather for Wigan
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 14 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: West
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 25 C
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