Wigan Athletic guest column: Shaun MacDonald

I thought the overall performance was pretty good, but we conceded some sloppy goals, and to lose the game was disappointing.

Set-pieces have undone us again, and it’s obviously something we’ll have to work on back at Euxton.

On a personal note, I hope I’ve given the gaffer something to think about, and that’s all I can do.

I’ve been working hard behind the scenes, I played for the Under-23s on Saturday, so that’s two games in the space of three days.

All I can do is keep my head down, and keep working hard.

Whatever happens, happens...all I can do is try to remain positive.

For those who aren’t in the first team at the moment, all we can do is try and impress when we’re given the chance.

With the way the gaffer plays, the shape of the team, it’s something I’ve been working hard on in pre-season.

It’s something I’m coming to terms with, and I feel like I’m getting better and stronger with every game.

As far as Saturday’s game against Nottingham Forest goes, I’m ready if the gaffer selects me.

Three games in a week isn’t easy, but you know me, I’d be willing to give it a good go.

I feel I’m ready to play, whether that’s here or anywhere else.

It’s just a base of taking each day as it comes, ticking the games off, and just trying to enjoy my football again to be honest.

It’s been a really tough couple of years on and off the field.

I played a lot of games the season I broke my leg, we were in a relegation fight for all of the year, and that was tough – even though I was playing.

The following season was also tough, albeit mentally, with having a long-term injury to try to get over.

It’s not been easy, I won’t lie, I’ve had some dark days, and my wife and family have picked me up and got me through.

It’s also been nice to have all the lads behind me right from day one.

But when you are injured, certainly for such a long time, you have to keep yourself positive, and trust yourself and your loved ones.

I’ve had a lot of messages from not just the lads but the fans, and people from other clubs.

That kept me going early on, but eventually that ends up going and you have to try and not get stuck in a bit of a rut.

You have to keep the right attitude, which I always have, and here I am.

Hopefully I can keep going, and keep getting stronger.

Me and the gaffer will have a few discussions, we’ve had a few already, and I’ll keep that between the two of us.

But every time I go into training, I always try to work hard, and I’ll continue that.