Martinez backs Rodallega

Rodallega: Backed by Martinez

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Wigan boss Roberto Martinez believes Hugo Rodallega's unique attributes will allow him to prove a success in England.

The Colombian striker joined the Latics in January after a deal agreed for this summer was rushed through by then manager Steve Bruce in order to cover Emile Heskey's move to Aston Villa.

Rodallega began to find his feet towards the end of last season and Martinez, who recently took up the reins at the DW Stadium, has backed the 23-year-old to shine in the future.

Martinez told the Wigan Evening Post: "Hugo is a very, very good prospect, but the best is yet to come once he feels fully part of the Premier League and part of the British way of life.

Big change

"That is a big thing and a big change from the way he used to live, but we are all excited to see him developing and enjoying his football with Wigan.

"In Britain, the striker is normally one-dimensional, and tends to play up against the centre-half, tries to hold the ball up and link the play.

"Hugo has a bit of everything - he is very talented, he can play between lines, he has very quick feet, he can go both ways and he is a great finisher.

"He is very different, and the type of striker that is very hard to find.

Doubts

"There are many doubts in your head as a foreign player when you move to a new league, but that will not be a factor for him anymore.

"He will start the season just thinking about how good he can be and master what he is good at, instead of worrying about what he will find and whether he will enjoy the British game.

"The first few months are critical because you are stepping into the unknown, and there is an apprehension there that it can dictate your future.

"But Hugo is settled over here, he knows the club and the league inside out, and I'm sure he is desperate to make a massive impact next season."