Must Win game for Martinez - Wigan Athletic FC

3 successive defeats in the league, as well as a 4-1 thumping at Blackpool in the Carling Cup, mean that Latics are already looking at the game against West Ham on Saturday as a must win. Tough games against Arsenal and Chelsea follow the visit of the Hammers to the DW tomorrow and given the fact that the club has only collected 4 points from a possible 99 mean that there is more emphasis on the game tomorrow.

Martinez believes that home form will be key to the clubs season, citing the next 6 months as a crucial time for the club as to how the season will pan out. The away victory at Aston Villa has proved that the club is capable of winning against tough opposition and a win against a strong West Ham side will give Wigan plenty of confidence going to the Emirates next week.

Speaking to Wigantoday.net, Martinez told of the importance of the fixture. "The West Ham game will be important because it is a home fixture.

"I don't think we have got the points that our performances have deserved over the last four games.

"But we are still growing, we are still adapting to what is needed, but from now on every home game will be vital.

"We need to ride out the tough periods, and we need the fans to allow the players to enjoy their football.

"I see Saturday's game as s a must-win and, as the home side, we must do everything we can do to win it."

Jason Koumas returns to the side tomorrow after missing the defeat at Everton with Martinez believing the return of the Welshman will give the side an extra bit of quality.

"Jason wasn't 100% fit for the Everton game, but he wanted to be available and he pushed himself.

"Soft-tissue injuries are the ones I hate the most, because you can avoid them all.

"But we didn't take any risks with him, he has trained well all this week and he is now back to 100%."

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