Wigan Athletic up for 'massive' challenge ahead, says Will Keane

Will Keane says the midweek win at Burton will give Wigan Athletic huge confidence for the ‘massive’ games that will kick-off 2021.
Will Keane heads home the winner at BurtonWill Keane heads home the winner at Burton
Will Keane heads home the winner at Burton

The ex-Manchester United junior popped up with the late winner at the Pirelli Stadium, after Kyle Joseph had delivered three equalisers to keep Latics in the game.

After picking up 11 points from their last six matches, which sees them in the relegation zone now on goal difference, Latics are now looking up the table, rather than down.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

And with fellow strugglers Swindon, Wimbledon and Rochdale to come in the space of a fortnight at the beginning of January, Keane sees it as a great opportunity to put further ground between themselves and the bottom of the league.

“Games are coming round thick and fast at the moment,” he acknowledged.

“The next two or three teams are massive for us, but we’ll enjoy Burton and then focus on Saturday for another big game (at Swindon).

“The lads are giving it their all and working hard and that’s what we need to do every game with the position we are in.

“You can see the quality that is coming out of it as well.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Keane is enjoying the best spell of his Latics stint, with five goals in his last nine matches alongside teenage sensation Kyle Joseph.

And the 27-year-old – twin brother of Everton defender Michael – says the sky’s the limit for his fledgling strike partner.

“You look at the goals Kyle scored on Tuesday night, it was a brilliant individual performance, and we all have him to thank,” he added.

“What a way to celebrate his first professional hat-trick as a young striker.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I’m sure Kyle is on top of the world and, to be fair, it’s all credit to him.

“He deserved it, you’ve seen his performances over the past couple of months.

“He’s stepped in when we’ve had injuries, he’s deserved his place, and he is there on merit.

“He’s a nightmare for defenders with his energy and ability, and we see him putting in extra work and practice on the training pitches which is paying off for him.”