Wigan Athletic duo return 'not imminent'

The duo are two of only three outfield survivors from last season’s Championship squad - along with Tom Pearce - and had been expected to be influential figures this term in the division below.

However, Wales international Evans has been limited to just a dozen appearances, with only one of them coming since October 24, because of a knee injury.

Massey has enjoyed even less game-time because of a calf problem, with the last of his 10 appearances coming on November 24.

And with the Latics squad crying out for both quality and quantity to help them kick away from the League One relegation zone, Richardson delivered an update that didn’t scream of optimism.

“They’re not imminent, sadly,” he said.

“Again, they’re as frustrated as anybody, they want to get out there and help the group.

“The injuries have dragged on far too long now, and the fitness levels need to get back up to speed because any squad at this level would miss two players like that.

“They have been big losses to us, and the sooner we can get them back the better.”

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