Wigan Athletic boss on chances of landing Joe Taylor on permanent deal

Latics will be unable to field their loan star - who has scored an impressive six goals in eight league games since crossing the Pennines last month - for the War of the Roses encounter.

While that will naturally leave a big role in his forward line, Caldwell feels it's a huge opportunity for the likes of Christian Saydee and Dara Costelloe to show the new manager what they can do.

"Joe's been incredible since I've been at the club," said Caldwell of the 23-year-old striker, who's netted all three goals since the new manager arrived earlier this month.

"But I also think Christian and Dara have also been fantastic, in terms of their running and their hold-up play.

"We'll obviously work hard with them this week ahead of Huddersfield, whether it's as a two or playing a different formation.

"Our attacking play at times was so good at Stockport last weekend...to score two goals away from home against a promotion-chasing team was very good."

Taylor's form has led Latics fans to dare to dream of the move being made permanent in the summer.

So what does Caldwell think of the idea?

"I've not had a spare second to assess that yet!" said the Scot, with a wry smile. "My full focus has been on two huge games.

"We might have some time to breathe over the next couple of weeks, but full focus then goes on to the training pitch and what we need to do to get better."

Caldwell also says youngster Llyton Chapman - who made his league debut at Stockport off the bench - will be part of his plans for the run-in.

"I must say, I thought Llyton was excellent, coming on for his debut," added Caldwell.

"For a young boy, he showed a lot of courage, a lot of desire, and stood up to a huge test at that stage of the game.

"And that's what we'll need for the rest of the season, because there's going to be ups and downs."