Wigan Athletic boss Gary Caldwell has angrily slammed accusations that Premier League parachute payments are the reason for The Latics’ League One success this season.
Having been relegated from the Premier League in 2013, next season’s slice of Premier League payments will be Wigan’s last. Whilst the added financial support has softened the significant blow of two relegations in three seasons, the Latics boss is adamant that hard work and determination from his squad triumphs over any financial advantage.
Speaking to Wigan Today, Caldwell admitted he felt that the season-long references to The Latics’ financial position by other clubs has been ‘disrespectful’.
“We’re not doing anything wrong,” stated Caldwell.
The Scotsman, in his first full season of senior management, highlighted that his players’ determination on and off the field to achieve success will be more important come the end of the season than a hefty transfer budget.
“I’ve never seen a budget sheet or a balance sheet win a game or win a title.”
“It’s players that go out and do that, and I think it’s a little bit disrespectful to our players who have worked very hard and played some fantastic football.”
Despite The Latics lying nine points ahead of third place Walsall, Caldwell feels his side needs to continue showing the same levels of passion and intensity shown in their current 20 game unbeaten run if they wish to secure promotion.
“The players have got bigger things to worry about, and the emphasis is on working hard in training and being ready for the last five games,
“All we can do is concentrate on these next five games.”
Wigan face a trip to struggling Doncaster on Saturday, before a crucial top of the league clash with Burton at the Pirelli Stadium on Tuesday.
