Thread: Wigan - Villarreal

Villarreal continues around the British Isle today to face Wigan Athletic. The Latics barely stayed up in 2010-11, needing a Hugo Rodallega goal in the final week to ensure a 7th consecutive Premier League campaign.

Wigan is located in greater Manchester and often gets short shrift from its big-spending neighbors (similar to a Getafe). The area is better known for its rugby team and meat pies, similar to the ceramics industry and Vila-real. But football is making a name for itself over time.

Wigan has a strong Hispanic flavor because of Spanish manager Roberto Martínez. The squad includes players from Argentina (di Santo), Colombia (Rodallega), Honduras (Figueroa, Thomas), Paraguay (Alcaraz), and Spain (Jordi Gómez, Adrián). A very interesting side, one that should pose a sterner test up front than Everton.

The same Villarreal XXIII is eligible as against Everton:

Goalkeepers: López, César.
Defenders: Mario, Mano, Zapata, Musacchio, Gonzalo, Catalá, Dervite, Oriol, Marchena.
Midfielders: Wakaso, Senna, Marcos Gullón, Bruno, Valero, Cani, Camuñas, Pérez.
Strikers: Bordas, Ruben, Nilmar, Rossi.

Recall that Marco Ruben nearly moved to Wigan last season, but the transfer fell through at the last minute. Similarly, Wigan striker Rodallega and left back Maynor Figueroa have been rumored Villarreal targets. Sr. Roig always has a reason for arranging these friendlies.

The match will be on GolT in Spain at 11 am ET. Endavant Villarreal!