The Latics have experienced a dismal week after last weekend’s 4-1 defeat at local rivals Bolton Wanderers was followed by a cup exit at the hands of third-tier rivals Wycombe Wanderers on Tuesday night. Speaking in the aftermath of the latter of those losses, Lowe dropped two major hints over how his starting line-up could look when his side hosts the Bluebirds at the Brick Community Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The former Preston North End manager spoke about Christian Saydee’s return from suspension and expressed his hope that captain Jason Kerr could be back in contention as he closes in on a return from injury. But how could the Latics’ starting 11 look when they look to bring a positive end to a negative week against a Cardiff side that are chasing an immediate return to the Championship this season? Here is our predicted Wigan line-up...
9. CM: Callum Wright
The on-loan Plymouth Argyle midfielder has started eight of 12 games in all competitions but was used as a substitute in the defeat at Bolton. A return to the starting 11 at the expense of Baba Adeeko could be considered. Photo: Bernard Platt
10. ST: Christian Saydee
There will be some relief over Saydee’s return to contention following a three-match ban, and it seems all but certain the former Portsmouth man will make an immediate return to the starting 11. Photo: Pete Norton
11. ST: Dara Costelloe
Saydee’s return means it will be a straight shoot-out between Costelloe and Paul Mullin for the other starting place at the top end of the pitch. Costelloe could get the nod, despite Mullin’s goal in last weekend’s defeat at Bolton Wanderers. Photo: Lewis Storey