Wigan Athletic players train ahead of final game against Rotherham

Wigan Today understands a number of first-team players didn’t take part, in the session and will not be involved against the Millers.

But those who will be taking to the field were put through their paces by Shaun Maloney and his management team at Christopher Park.

It’s the latest development in another crazy week off the field at the club.

Only those players contracted beyond this summer received their wages on Friday night.

However, those whose contracts are due to expire at the end of this season are still waiting for their remuneration.

The move came after the four-weekly wage cycle was again not hit on Friday morning – the FIFTH time that has happened this term.

Indeed, the fourth incident caused the club to be deducted three points, which effectively sealed their relegation straight back to League One.

Wigan Today received assurances from high-ranking officials that the wages would ‘absolutely be paid’ later in the day.

But the 5pm ‘deadline’ came and passed without payment.

Meaning the players again had their patience – and loyalty – stretched at the end of a tumultuous campaign, with supporters left wondering what on earth is going on.

Non-playing staff received their wages as usual.

The squad were off as planned on Friday, but were scheduled to train on Saturday and Sunday ahead of the final game of the season against Rotherham at the DW on Monday.

They were told to take Saturday to clear their heads, with a number of them training as usual on Sunday.

Monday’s game is effectively a dead rubber, with opponents Rotherham having already secured their safety earlier in the week.

Boss Maloney will presumably have to dip into the youth ranks to fill the squad for the game.

However, the situation is further complicated by the club’s Under-21s having a massive game at QPR on Tuesday dinnertime.