Match Preview: Wigan vs Manchester City

So did you enjoy the break? For many, especially Latics fans I think not. It is always very annoying when you teams rhythm is stopped by a two-week break to play qualifiers. But as we now know England are all but over the line (as they should be), so back to domestic football.

Our last game, saw a huge improvement in the teams result, and that final step up in play to win a game. Had it been a different day the score line could have read much bigger for Wigan. But any win is a good win, and I think we can all be happy with Di Santo's brace.

So next is one of the big boys. Only six years ago when we came into the Premier League, Manchester City were a mid-table to Europa league team. Nothing special but could produce some good football. After a massive cash injection, well we know the story.

One of the countries most iconic teams, became the countries richest team over night. Three managers and nearly £2 billion later, they have a squad which could walk into the Premier League title. Their 5-1 demolition of a strong Tottenham side showed that, the red side of Manchester won't have it all their own way.

As for Wigan, what can we do? How do you play against such attacking might on their home turf?

One thing we can not and should not do, is sit back. We have to go out at 199 mph, not letting Man City settle nor any of their attacking players get more than two seconds of the ball. Martinez's possession football will be put to the test, against what is for me the league's strongest team.

Latics go into the game with everyone fit bar two players. Alcaraz who could be out till November is a definite no, while Steve Gohuri could make a return to the side this week. However I feel that is unlikely against such strong opponents.

Albert Crusat, Shaun Maloney and Patrick Van Anholt could all make their debuts for the club, whether they will, is done to first their fitness and secondly will they fit Martinez's plans. I would expect us to see Crusat play some part in the game, most likely off the bench. Where as Maloney's previous Premier League experience could help to strength up the midfield.

Man to Watch

So who is the Manchester City man to watch? Do you go for Aguero? Or maybe Dezko who has come alive, in the past few games. For me you have to watch David Silva.

Signed last year, the tricky Spaniard as all the skills that makes teams tremble. Quick feet and a fast mind, coupled with pace and an eye for a goal make the player one of Europe's hottest talents. He has really come into his own this year and been at the center of most of Man City's attacks.

Closing him down and not allowing him to get into space are the only ways to deal with such a tricky customer. Diame would make a great man marker following the player across the pitch, who himself has pace and some trickery in his locker.

What ever the team that goes out to play on Saturday. All they can do is give 110%. What ever the result it is about the bigger picture. Man City are looking to steam roll to the title. We want to be safe and dry by Christmas.

Keeping our heads and playing the easy ball, could see us get something from the game. It comes down to luck for the Latics on the day, and I wish them well.