Wigan gave new signings Emmerson Boyce and Tomasz Cywka their first run-outs for the club in a 2-0 victory against Southport at Haig Avenue last night. Boyce, signed from Crystal Palace earlier this week as a potential replacement for want-away defender Pascal Chimbonda, slotted in at right back while Cywka played in midfield having been given international clearance yesterday morning.
Wigan went ahead with a goal from substitute Kris King after 61 minutes and victory was secured late on when the ball looped in off Lee McCulloch following a goalkeepers clearance.
On the transfer speculation surrounding Chimbonda, Wigan manager Paul Jewell has told Spurs and West Ham to forget about signing the French international unless their £6 million valuation is matched.
"There has got to be a club willing to buy anybody before there is a possible departure. Until Tottenham, or any club, come up with what we want he will remain at our football club because he is paid by Wigan and plays for us," he said.
Charlton slumped to their third defeat in four pre-season games after a surprise 1-0 loss at Welling. Former Leeds United utility man Simon Walton sliced a clearance into his own net in the first minute of the second half to hand the Conference South outfit victory at Park View Road.
However, Addicks boss Iain Dowie insists he has been pleased with his side's preparations despite recent results. "What has delighted me is the way the lads have embraced the training. It has been a bit more intense than they had imagined, but they have been conducive to every new idea and their work ethic has been terrific," said Dowie.
As for any new signings arriving at the Valley before the start of the season, Dowie added: "We are actively working on it. Hopefully over the next week or so will be bringing in one or two more bodies."
Meanwhile. Dowie's replacement at Crystal Palace, Peter Taylor is unsure about his future as part-time England Under 21 coach following the appointment of Steve McClaren.
After meeting the new England senior boss yesterday, Taylor said: "My situation is open-ended at the moment and that's not a problem for me."
Taylor though, will be in charge foe forthcoming Under 21s' European Championship qualifier against Moldova on August 15, while McClaren has also retained the services of goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence.
McClaren said: "Ray is a vital member of the coaching set-up and I was keen to see him continue his role. He is hugely respected by the players and his own experience of international football, both as a player and a coach, will be invaluable to me."
