Swansea City head into Saturday’s Championship fixture with Wigan Athletic looking to defeat their rivals and move back into playoff contention with kickoff at 6 pm.
After winning seven times in nine matches, Swansea City defender Russell Martin would have expected a continuation of that form when his side travelled to Bristol City and Preston North End.
But instead, the team collected just one point in those two games, which left them barely inside the playoff places.
While there will be disappointment over the outcome of those double-headers, Martin will also put everything into context, with Swansea’s form has been much worse before he joined the club in August.
After failing to prevail in their last three away fixtures, Swansea will be happy to return to their home ground, where they have recorded four triumphs in succession.
After five consecutive defeats, Leam Richardson’s Wigan side is in danger of relegation. While the Latics appeared to be dark horses for a playoff place earlier this season, they now find themselves in the relegation zone.
With only three points separating them from 14th, Richardson will not be overly concerned by their current league position.
However, Wigan have not won a game in over a month and does not look like a side on the verge of ending their streak.
Swansea vs Wigan Head to Head
Both sides have nine games against each other, with the hosts taking five wins while the visitors with one win. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Preston 1-0 Swansea
- Bristol 1-1 Swansea
- Swansea 2-0 Cardiff
- Swansea 3-2 Reading
Away
- Wigan 0-1 Stoke
- Wigan 0-1 Watford
- QPR 2-1 Wigan
- Wigan 1-4 Middlesbrough
Swansea Team News
Due to Matt Grimes’ suspension, Martin will likely be forced to use Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee Luke Cundle in a deeper midfield position alongside Jay Fulton. This would allow either Oliver Cooper or Jamie Paterson to return to the starting lineup, while changes are expected in defence and wing-back.
Wigan Team News
Manager Gary Caldwell could recall midfielder Graeme Shinnie after the player served a one-match ban for five yellow cards. Jordan Cousins may miss out to accommodate Shinnie, and Caldwell may make changes in attack with Charlie Wyke and Josh Magennis pushing for recalls.
Prediction and Odds
We believe that Swansea will get back on track at their home ground. We expect them to start quickly and see the rest of the contest.
- Home Win
- Correct Score: 2-1
- Both Teams to Score
