Boss On Wigan's Balls-Up

Moyes in jocular mood in response to Wigan's missing balls.

When Wigan Athletic secured Premier League survival in dramatic fashion against Stoke City on the final day of last season few critics could say that the Latics lacked balls.

But that was exactly the problem Roberto Martinez's side were faced with on Thursday as they continued their preparations for Saturday's game against Everton at Goodison Park.

Thieves had stolen 48 footballs from Wigan's training ground and the players were forced to start their session without them.

Everton manager David Moyes was asked about it in his pre-match press conference and replied - with tongue firmly in cheek: "We sent somebody round to get rid of a few balls and Wigan had none to train with!"

Earlier, Greater Manchester Police said: "Shortly before 11.30am on Thursday, police were called to Christopher Park, Standish, following a report of theft.

"Sometime between 9.45am and 11am four ball bags containing 48 Nike footballs were stolen. Inquiries are continuing."

Martinez knows that his side's trip to Everton will be a difficult one, regardless of any equipment-related issues.

"We are going to have to be at our best, otherwise you are going to be hurt," he said.

"At Goodison Park Everton really test you, put you against the wall and make you defend well.

"It is not just their football ability, you need to overcome the mentality they have got."

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