Legend sees similarities with Wigan Athletic battle

The Luton boss – a Latics legend both from his playing days and in management alongside Roberto Martinez – returned to the DW at the weekend, with the game finishing 0-0.

That means Latics are two points clear of the drop zone with nine matches to go, while the Hatters lie seven points adrift of safety.

Jones, though, has experience of defying the odds during his time with Latics, and is adamant both sides can achieve their objectives.

When asked if he thought both sides will stay up, he replied: “I do, yes, I really do.

“I’m enjoying the situation, because I’ve been here many, many times before.

"And it’s about keeping your head, keeping people focused.

“I’ve got a group of lads who are giving me anything, which they’ve done from day one.

"We’ve all made mistakes, but we’re learning along the way.

“It’s so similar to when I was here at Wigan, and we were in the same position, fighting against the odds.

“You get a few good results, and all of a sudden that belief comes.

"We’re not quite up with Wigan this year – they’ve spent a damn sight more money than us – but I’m satisfied.

“It’s just about keeping our standards really high, and see where we are at the end of the season.”

Jones was making his first return to Wigan as a No.1, and admits he was taken aback by the wonderful reception he received before kick-off.

“Absolutely, it was a nice moment,” he said. “We’ve still got our family home in the area, and my family were there.

“It’s nice to be appreciated here...I’ve got maybe seven or eight other clubs where I wouldn’t get the same kind of ovation! I think the world of this club. It’s in my heart.”