'Whole new meaning to Wigan Athletic badge' admits skipper

Morsy has led from the front as Latics have battled against adversity to try to hang on to their Championship status.

After looking like they’d climbed one mountain – by recovering from being bottom of the table in January to reach the safety mark earlier this month – Latics were back to square one when the club was placed in administration.

Against all odds, the players have rallied yet again, and head into the last two matches of the campaign out of the bottom three on goal difference – even with their 12-point deduction applied.

The effort on the field has been matched only by the supporters off it – in raising more than £160,000 for the ‘Let’s Hang On’ appeal.

Leaving Morsy, as captain, hugely proud of the club, and everyone connected with it.

“It obviously means more than it’s ever meant to me, to be honest,” he said.

“And I think a lot of players would feel the same as me.

“I’ve been here a number of years now, and have thoroughly enjoyed my time here.

“The fans have always been great with me, and great with the team.

“But since what’s happened has happened, the amount of love and support they’ve shown me and the lads has been truly astounding really.

“Seeing their efforts to try and save the club, and the effects it’s had on their lives, has brought a whole new meaning to the badge and the shirt.

“I’m so proud to captain this club and so proud to captain this group of players.

“And now it’s just about finishing the job off, taking it one game at a time.

“If we can win at Charlton on Saturday, we’d put ourselves in a very good position going into the last game.”

Morsy has epitomised the pride and passion shown on and off the field in recent weeks, and he’s well aware of what is riding on the next week or so.

“We’re doing it for everyone in the town – this is their livelihoods and their lives,” he added. “We’ve had so many messages, so much goodwill, everyone’s just come together for the same cause.

“As players we know we can help the club stay up, and make it more attractive to prospective buyers coming in.

“There’s a million different things going on in the background, but you’ve just got to focus first and foremost on winning the next game.

“It’s hard, but you’ve almost got to detach yourself from the emotions involved, and just concentrate on winning.”