Rodallega excited by Wigan

Colombian close to JJB switch

Last updated: 8th January 2009

Rodallega excited by Wigan

Rodallega: Wigan switch close

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

Hugo Rodallega has spoken of his excitement as a move to Wigan Athletic moves ever closer.

The Colombian is on the verge of completing a £4.5million switch to The JJB from Mexican club Necaxa and needs just a work permit for the deal to be completed.

Rodallega, who scored 15 goals in 36 matches for Necaxa last season, is to have his application to secure the necessary paperwork heard next week.

"I am very motivated to be playing alongside such a talented group of players," said Rodallega, who expects to be a Wigan player by 15th January.

"I am very happy because a very good piece of news has been finally confirmed. This is one of my dreams coming true."

Prepared

"It is a big challenge to me and I am mentally prepared," he added.

"I think you can adapt yourself to all the leagues. If the English league is not the best in the world, it is one of the best.

"Since I was told about the possibility of playing there, I watch them (Wigan) every time I can.

"They have a very similar style to all the teams there - fast, strong, tough.

"Considering what I have and what I am going to learn, I will get to a team with high goals."

Rodallega is also hoping a higher profile in the Premier League will help his chances of an international recall.

Waiting

"What I want to achieve as a player is playing the World Cup with the national team," he told El Tiempo newspaper.

"It is the biggest and most important thing for a player and Colombia would make a big step by playing the next World Cup.

"I only need coach (Eduardo) Lara to call me. I've been the second top scorer in Mexico but the coach decided not to call me.

"It's only a matter of waiting for the right moment."