Roberto Martinez has tipped Wigan youngster Callum McManaman as a top prospect for the future.
Latics boss tips youngster to follow in footsteps of Leighton Baines
Roberto Martinez has tipped Wigan youngster Callum McManaman as a top prospect for the future.
The 19-year-old was a stand-out performer during Wigan's 3-2 win over Hull City in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
Martinez likened McManaman to the last successful product to come out of the DW Stadium, Leighton Baines.
The Latics boss believes the young forward, who was overjoyed to score his first senior goal during the win at the KC Stadium, has a bright future ahead of him in the Premier League.
"Since the first time he participated this season against Arsenal in the League Cup, straight away you could see he is desperate to be on a football pitch," said Martinez.
"In his first game he showed a little bit of everything; a real magic touch, really hard work, real quality and a street-wise talent that is really rare to see.
"We're extremely pleased to have a player that has come through the youth set-up. Since Leighton Baines came into the first team we haven't had another youngster and I think it's important we try to give them opportunities because it's a real sign for the future of Wigan."
De Ridder promise
Another bright point at the KC was the performance of the returning Daniel De Ridder, a forgotten man at the club.
The 26-year-old impressed in his first Latics appearance since May 2009 following a loan spell at Hapoel Tel Aviv.
"It's been difficult for Daniel. He's had a couple of trial periods with other clubs but in the last few weeks he's really worked hard in training and he deserved the opportunity," added Martinez.
"On the ball he worked hard, he always looked a threat and he's given himself a good opportunity to carry on helping the team from now until the end of the season."
