Wigan Athletic in awe of 'fiercely determined' Charlie Wyke says assistant manager James Beattie

The striker assisted the winning goal in Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Birmingham City, in what was his first competitive game since suffering a cardiac arrest last November.

Beattie states “fierce determination” has helped Wyke make his return to action.

“Charlie is Charlie,” he said.

“He is a great person and a very good centre forward, as you would’ve seen on Saturday.

“To draw two defenders forward and put Nathan (Broadhead) through for a tailor-made chance was typical Charlie.

“The story behind him coming back is phenomenal.

“The club is happy of course to have Charlie, but as a person we’re happy he’s still here and able to put a kit on.

“His attitude is second to none. He absolutely loves football and wanted to be back playing.

“It was his decision, and whatever the medics threw at him, he came back and proved them wrong.

“We’re not putting too much responsibility on him, but the way he’s come back and conducted himself with fierce determination has left everyone in awe of him.”

Wigan claimed their first win of the season on Saturday, as they beat Birmingham City 1-0 at St Andrew’s’, despite being down to 10 men for the majority of the game.

Beattie says there is a real togetherness in the current group.

“We’re happy with the start,” he added.

“Lots of teams are still getting used to the league, but we’re not getting carried away and will carry on working hard..

“We accept the league is very challenging but the lads are a confident bunch and have created an environment where they work hard, not just for themselves, but for each other as a team.

“They come in, do the work, and take on information really well.

“We were pleased on Saturday, it just epitomised the spirit and the work ethic within the group, especially after going down to 10 men early on.

“The result was down to the habits and behaviours they show throughout the week.

“Whoever is put in front of us, we will do the preparation to face them, then go out and try to put in a good performance on the pitch.

“The spirit and togetherness in the squad has never been in question. Times like Saturday when they are at the most adversity is when they pull together, and just shows what a tight-knit group they are.

“It’s not just on the pitch, but off it they all respect each other as humans and are good friends. You don’t have to be a good friend to be a good teammate, but I think it helps.

“The team spirit has always been brilliant. One of the main things the gaffer wanted to do last year was to recruit good people.

“We always appreciate fans who go away and the ones who support us at home. They deserve a huge credit for how they got behind the team on Saturday.

“They are the moments you should cherish and enjoy.

“When that final whistle goes, you enjoy the win, but it’s straight onto the next opponent.”