Jackson eyes bumper crowds ahead

Bumper crowds are expected next weekend for the blockbusting pre-season double-header against Manchester United (July 16, 1.30pm) and Liverpool (July 17, 4pm), with both north-west giants expected to fill the East Stand.

And Jackson is hoping that will be a sign of things to come with some massive clubs like Newcastle and Aston Villa to come next term.

“It was brilliant to see the stadium against Barnsley on the final day of last season, helped by 5,000 Barnsley fans who were there to cheer their side into the play-offs,” said the Latics CEO.

“It was also great to see the home ends much more fuller than they had been throughout the season.

“I don’t think it will be full every week next year, but we’re certainly looking at some big away followings coming to Wigan again, and I think that’s great for the atmosphere and the matchday experience.

“And hopefully our pricing policy – especially for the season tickets – will have a real positive effect on home fans attending the games.”