Leighton in the squad tonight as Latics reveal he will not be joining Sunderland

Leighton Baines has been included in Wigan Athletic's squad for tonight's clash with Blackpool at Bloomfield Road (kick off 7.45pm) and is likely to feature in the game.

Latics boss Chris Hutchings has revealed that the England Under 21 international "will play some part" in the pre-season friendly this evening, as he makes his comeback from a virus that sidelined him during the recent trip to Holland.

The club have also confirmed that Baines will not be joining newly promoted Sunderland, contrary to media reports suggesting otherwise.

Chris Hutchings said: "Leighton is finally over his virus, he trained for the first time this summer yesterday and he will be involved in some capacity tonight (Wednesday 25th July).

"He's been laid low with a virus for the last couple of weeks and has been restricted to light training. He was with the rest of the squad in Holland working directly with our physiotherapists but now he's been given the all clear to get involved in the heavy stuff."

Hutchings also praised the player's attitude.

"Leighton is a first class pro and a first class person and despite all the speculation and rumour surrounding his future he has remained professional throughout and as ever is a joy to work with.

"I've coached him since he first broke into the first team as a young apprentice and taken great satisfaction in how he's developed as a player and an individual."

Latics will take their strongest possible squad to Bloomfield Road for tonight's fixture, with Chris Hutchings promising to give as many players as possible some game time.