Shaun Maloney’s post-Lincoln promise will be seriously appealing to Wigan Athletic supporters

Wigan Athletic showcased their attractive playing style in a 2-1 victory over Lincoln City on Saturday afternoon. The first goal was a result of a swift, one-touch passing move between Charlie Hughes and Tom Pearce, which was finished off by Jonny Smith with a curling shot from outside the box.

This type of goal represents the playing style that manager Shaun Maloney is trying to instill in his players, and Wigan supporters will hope for more of the same before the season ends.

Lincoln City, who lost the match, responded well with a 1-0 win over Oxford United on Tuesday. Despite the loss, Lincoln remains in the play-off picture, and Wigan’s victory demonstrates their ability to compete against high-caliber League One opposition, even away from home. 

After Wigan’s victory over Lincoln City, manager Shaun Maloney expressed his commitment to implementing a free-flowing football style, which he believes is reminiscent of the club’s playing style under Roberto Martinez over a decade ago. Maloney, who served as an assistant manager in Martinez’s Belgium setup and played under him at Wigan, has been influenced by this type of football and aims to instill it in his players.

Wigan with a wonderful team goal 👏

Delightful passage of play finished off nicely from Jonny Smith! @EFL | @LaticsOfficial pic.twitter.com/x8LgYEhx0T

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) April 13, 2024

Maloney wants to restore Wigan’s identity as a possession-based team, reminiscent of the club’s success under Martinez in the Premier League and FA Cup triumph in 2013.

He emphasized the importance of the club’s DNA and bringing it back, as seen in the first goal against Lincoln City, which was a result of an impressive passing move. Wigan supporters will be pleased with Maloney’s commitment to restoring the club’s identity and playing attractive football.

Charlie Hughes showed why he is so highly-rated

Charlie Hughes, a 20-year-old defender, has gained recognition for his impressive performances this season, despite not winning the League One young player of the season award.

He has been linked with transfer interest from Ipswich Town and West Ham United due to his key role in Wigan’s build-up play and his impressive defensive skills. Hughes’ performance in the win over Lincoln City, where he scored the winner with a volley, further showcased his abilities. While it is uncertain whether he will remain at Wigan beyond this season, the club can be optimistic about the future under manager Shaun Maloney, who is focused on returning to the glory days of attractive football.