Gaffer happy with players' progression and encouraged by McArthur debut

Speaking after Monday evening's 4-1 win over NK Rudar Roberto Martinez spoke of how happy he was with where his players are up to in their pre-season programme, laying the right foundations to continue progressing upon;

"Another very good exercise, you're always looking to get through these games without injuries and we did that very well," said Martinez.

"There were many good things you could see during the game, building on what we had done in our previous practice matches and progressing nicely.

"Already you can see there is plenty of competition in different positions which is very healthy, and overall good approach and attitude from the players."

The gaffer continued, revealing the team are hitting the right levels at this point of the pre-season, benefiting from the week-long training camp in Austria;

He said; "We're still working between 45-60 minutes.

"I don't think there are many players apart form the back-four who are ready to play a full game just yet, but that is where we wanted to be at this point.

"The players are starting to work towards the right volumes, but they look sharp and we'll build on that.

"On Thursday we have another match-exercise and all the sessions have been very productive.

"Out here is another beautiful environment to work in and the players are taking advantage of that."

There was also mention of James McArthur who made his debut during the game, coming on in the second-half and settling into the game nicely;

"He (McArthur) looked extremely natural, as though he had been playing for Wigan Athletic for a few seasons already.

"Within five minutes of coming on he was shouting for the ball, organising the team and working very hard, which is natural to him.

"It's important that a new player fits into the group well and he's shown that he's done that already."