Hagen: Loving life at Wigan

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Erik Hagen has already decided that he would like to turn his loan move to Wigan into a permanent arrangement.

The imposing central defender moved to The JJB on transfer deadline day after becoming frustrated with life at Russian side Zenit St Petersburg.

Hagen, an established Norway international, has a reputation for being a no-nonsense defender and has already seen enough of the Premier League to be sure he wants to stay.

When quizzed on if he would like to stay beyond the end of the season, when his current deal expires, he said: "Definitely.

Permanent stay

"Just after a few days I'm really enjoying myself, so it is up to me and the club.

"Both me and my girlfriend are so happy to be here because the last year in Russia was difficult for us. People are so nice here compared to in Russia.

"I'm a quiet person so it's always a little bit difficult to change club but people have been so open and friendly that it's made things easy."

Hagen admits he was pleasantly surprised when he got the call from Wigan, having been of the opinion he had missed his chance to play in England.

Will to win

"My strength has always been my strength and my will to win.

"I can obviously see my flaws as a footballer, so I live to defend - that's my job.

"I was in contact with other clubs and I didn't think any team from the Premier League would come that close to the end of the transfer window.

"But obviously when they made contact it was fantastic for me."