Paul Cook: Wigan Athletic's plan of attack is on target

Will Grigg is expected to return to the starting line-up for Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash at leaders Blackburn after dropping to the bench last weekend against Rochdale.

The Northern Ireland international, with 13 goals in his last 19 matches, should take over from James Vaughan, who led the line against Dale, and has settled in well since his January arrival from Championship outfit Sunderland.

Devante Cole - another January signing, from Fleetwood - was also named on the bench for the first time against Dale, and will be desperate to add to his 12 goals this term if given the chance.

While Grigg is undisputed top dog at the moment, Cook admits the fight for places will only stand the side in good stead.

“I thought James was excellent on Saturday, in difficult circumstances,” acknowledged the Latics chief.

“He’s come in to the club in January, he’s an exceptional lad and he’s champing at the bit to do well.

“We know he’ll score goals as well as creating goals for others, and it gives us the option of going with two up top.

“With Devante having also joined us in the window, I really feel we’re in a very lucky position at the moment, and they’ll all hopefully play a part in our future success.”

The trip to Ewood Park took on greater significance in midweek, with the Ewood outfit winning 3-0 on the road at Wimbledon while Latics saw their game at Bristol Rovers called off.

Latics are now six points clear of Sunday’s opponents, albeit with four games in hand.

But Cook chooses to take a pragmatic approach to the situation.

“We’ll continue to take it one game at a time, and I think that’s important,” he added.

“You can’t get ahead of yourselves at any level of football. That’s what we won’t do.”