Hugo Rodellega resurgence delights Wigan manager Roberto Martinez

Columbian now content following transfer speculation during January window and could be the difference once again for the relegation-threatened club

9 Feb 2012 16:48:00

By Nathan Lowe

More On :  Wigan Athletic, Roberto Martínez, Hugo Rodallega

Manager Roberto Martinez claims forward Hugo Rodallega has been like 'a new player' for Wigan after speculation surrounding a possible move away dissipated at the end of the transfer window.

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The Columbian has led the side in scoring the last two seasons, but fancied a move away after inconsistent form and injuries plagued this term at the JJB Stadium.

But his boss says the striker has found good spirits since the transfer window closed, and suggests he could feature for the league's bottom team this weekend against Bolton.

"Remember, every footballer is a human being," the 38-year-old told reporters. "It is normal that you get distracted by all the speculation.

"We have seen that time after time and I am sure we are going to see it in the future. Now I am delighted the window is closed and we are all really focused.

"Hugo has been nothing but a great professional, bringing great standards on a daily basis. In the last two years we have seen what he has done on the football pitch and we need Hugo at 100%. We need him enjoying his football.

"Since the transfer deadline, in many ways, we have found a new player and we need to enjoy Hugo's quality until the end of the season."

Rodallega was the hero for Wigan in their survival scrap last season, but has only netted twice this season as he continues to struggle through recurring minor injuries.

Martinez suggests the derby match Saturday might be the right time for the Latics talisman.

"Hugo is ready now," he added. "He had a bit of a soft tissue problem that he picked up against Man City and we had to look after that.

"Now everyone is available and wants to play [and] Hugo is no different - he is desperate to be on the pitch to help the team."

The two sides meet Saturday afternoon at the Reebok Stadium with four points separating the teams within the relegation zone.

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