Wigan boss Roberto Martinez admits he fears a call from Sir Alex Ferguson requesting the return of Tom Cleverley.
Martinez eager to keep in-form winger at the DW Stadium
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez admits he fears a call from Sir Alex Ferguson requesting the return of Tom Cleverley.
The Manchester United winger crossed the North West in the summer to join Wigan on a season-long loan but his parent club retained a recall option.
Cleverley has impressed at the DW Stadium with a series of sparkling displays and Ferguson has intimated in the past he feels the England Under 21 international could soon be ready to make an impact at first-team level at Old Trafford.
Such was Ferguson's rage at Preston's decision to sack his son Darren last week he demanded the recall of loanees Ritchie de Laet, Josh King and Matty James.
Martinez believes Cleverley's time at Wigan is aiding his development but concedes the player's future will be determined by Ferguson.
Agreement
"The loan was for the whole season but the call-back option is there," said Martinez.
"But Tom has settled very well here and is enjoying his football. We hope that will continue. But it's not in our hands what is going to happen."
Ferguson was in the stands during Wigan's 1-0 defeat to Newcastle on Sunday and he was believed to be watching his young hopeful, but Martinez hopes the United boss will stick to the agreement.
"I haven't spoken with Sir Alex," Martinez said after the match. "At the moment nothing is changing. He is on loan until the end of the season.
"Obviously Man United have the option to call him back, as with any other loan, but at the moment nothing has been said."
