Wigan Athletic skipper has blunt one-word message for third block of games

Latics returned from the second international break with a fine 2-0 victory at Exeter at the weekend.

The first two blocks of fixtures could hardly have been more contrasting, with a marvellous opening set of results followed by a hugely disappointing return following the first international break in September.

Saturday's victory at Exeter has boosted the confidence levels in the camp ahead of a gruelling programme before the final international break in the middle of November.

And club captain Magennis has called on his colleagues to dig deep and ensure the side is clear of the drop zone by then.

"I've played in seasons where performances haven't always been there but you just churn out the results," he said.

"I've played in other seasons where performances have been amazing and the results just haven't followed.

"I've seen it all, and hopefully we're coming out of a situation where results weren't going our way.

"The only answer is graft...you just graft, and graft, and graft until you turn that corner.

"It's a numbers game, and eventually something will turn for you.

"We've been trying all we can, it's certainly not through a lack of effort, or a lack of professionalism.

"It hurt, and it needed to hurt, because it means so much to so many people.

"At the same time, we couldn't fester on it too long, because the games in this league come thick and fast.

"It's about not forgetting about it, but trying to departmentalise it, move on, and try to push up the league."

Magennis feels manager Shaun Maloney's demeanour - not allowing himself to get too high or too low - is perfect for the group.

"He's not one to be in your personal space, but when he speaks, everyone listens," added the Northern Ireland international.

"He's a football man, he lives and breathes football, that's how he's always been and always will be.

"He puts a lot of responsibility on the group - not just the senior players but also the younger lads.

"We just have to repay that with results. All we can do is knuckle down, and keep grinding."