Kal Naismith scores twice in Wigan Athletic friendly win

Just days after beating Bolton 5-1, Kal Naismith scored twice and Gary Roberts was also on the mark for Leam Richardson’s side

There was no surprise that Cedric Kipre, who has been linked with a move away, was missing from the side.

Captain Sam Morsy as well as Joe Garner and Lee Evans were also absent, raising speculation they may be on the move as well and were left out to ensure they don't get injured.

Jamie Jones, Nathan Byrne, Tom Pearce and Naismith all started, along with free-agent Roberts – who is training with Latics ahead of the 2020/21 season. Three trialists were also in the starting line-up.

Naismith's first minute opener was cancelled out on 19 minutes when Scales got in behind Latics’ defence and chipped over Jones.

Roberts put Latics back in front on 35 minutes when a cross from the right deflected into his path and he volleyed home from the edge of the area.

Latics remained unchanged for the second-half and doubled their advantage on 55 minutes when a brilliant run from the trialist striker down the right opened up an opportunity to cross for Naismith at the back post to place home his second and Latics’ third.

Harry Pritchard got a goal back for the hosts with 10 minutes remaining.

Latics: J. Jones; Byrne (Jolley 83), Obi, Trialist (Long 55), Pearce; Merrie, Trialist (Perry 60); Trialist (Crankshaw 68), Roberts (Aasgaard 87), Naismith (Smith 89), Trialist (Joseph 68).

Subs: B. Jones, Robinson, Sanders.