Wigan Athletic striker suffers shock pre-season injury
Wigan Athletic have suffered their first injury problem of the season - a month before the big kick-off!
Striker Christian Saydee is currently sporting a medical boot after picking up a calf problem.
He's already a massive doubt for the start of the new campaign, with Latics visiting Barnsley in round one of the Carabao Cup on Saturday, August 6, before the League One opener at Cambridge United the following weekend.
It's not thought to have affected manager Gary Caldwell's recruitment plans, as the Scot already has targets lined up in various positions to bolster his squad.
However, it will give Sonny Perkins - one of the seven new signings so far this summer - a chance over the pre-season friendlies to stake his claim for a starting spot alongside Dara Costelloe.
It could also open the door for academy product Chris Sze - who last week signed a 12-month contract extension - an early opportunity to show what he can do.
Latics host Port Vale - who were relegated from League One last season - at the Brick Community Stadium this weekend in their first official pre-season friendly.
They played a behind-closed-doors bounce game against Manchester City last weekend, although no details are being released due to an agreement between the clubs.
Meanwhile, Harrison Bettoni is poised to complete his move to Premier League giants Chelsea this week.
As reported by Wigan Today last month, the 18-year-old forward decided on the move after turning down two improved contract offers from Latics, who will receive compensation for their role in his development.