Wigan Athletic boss plays Gibson straight bat

The former Ireland international midfielder has been training with Latics all summer after parting company with Sunderland at the end of last term.

Gibson’s featured in all three warm-up matches, the latest being Sunday’s 3-0 defeat at Rangers.

But when asked whether the 30-year-old, who came through the ranks at Manchester United before joining Everton, would be joining on a permanent basis, Cook kept his cards close to his chest.

“I don’t really want to individualise players,” the Latics boss said.

“We could be here all night if we start speaking individually about all 20 of my players.

“Darron, like everyone else, played well in the first half, and in the second half, there was a lot we can improve on.”

When the question was slightly rephrased, Cook maintained his stance.

“I don’t really want to speak about individuals,” he added.

“We’ve got a lot of players within the framework and the team.”

Gibson would have to put pen to paper before the weekend to be eligible for Saturday’s Championship opener against Sheffield Wednesday at the DW.