Wigan Athletic’s new signing is ‘weeks ahead of schedule,’ according to manager Maloney.
Martial Godo’s influence at Wigan Athletic has come weeks ahead of schedule, according to Shaun Maloney.
The 20-year-old joined Latics on a season-long loan from Premier League Fulham on transfer deadline day.
He made his debut against Cambridge on Saturday and made an immediate impact, notably setting up the game-winning goal for Thelo Aasgaard.He made his debut against Cambridge on Saturday and made an immediate impact, notably setting up the game-winning goal for Thelo Aasgaard.
And Maloney claims Godo’s promotion to the first team has surprised everyone, including himself.
“I thought Martial was really good, considering it was his first ever senior game,” stated the Latics manager.
“He provided an excellent assist for Thelo’s goal and was outstanding throughout.”
“I didn’t expect to be playing him so soon; when I signed him, I expected to have to break him in over two, three, four games.”But, because of how he’s been training since he arrived, he’s forced his way into the side.
“It’s also an excellent message to send to the other players.”
“If you train like he has, you’ll be able to earn a starting spot.”
“Then how you play the game will determine whether or not you stay there.”
Latics’ squad strength was highlighted by the absence of fellow winger Jordan Jones, who represented Northern Ireland during the previous international break, from Saturday’s matchday 18.
“Even though Jordan Jones didn’t make the 18, he’s starting to get himself into a really good place, and he’s pushing hard,” Maloney added.
“Every player needs to understand that they must perform in training if they are to play on a Saturday, and that’s what we have right now.”
The victory over Cambridge was all the more impressive given the significant delay.
“Callum Lang had an illness in the week, and I didn’t think he could give us more than 45,” said Maloney, whose team has five points from seven games.
“That’s why he didn’t start, the same as Tom Pearce, because there’s been a bit of an illness in the camp.”
