Fit-again Nick Powell pushing for starting berth for Wigan’s clash with Boro

Posted Friday, March 01, 2019 by PA

Wigan midfielder Nick Powell is pushing for a first start since November against Middlesbrough after recovering from a hamstring injury.

The former Manchester United player has been used as a substitute in the last two games and will hope for further action as Latics attempt to extend their four-game unbeaten run.

Defender Danny Fox returned to the fold in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Ipswich after missing the 0-0 draw at Stoke under the concussion protocol.

However, midfielder Darron Gibson continues to battle his way back from a thigh injury.

Boro boss Tony Pulis is likely to be without defenders Aden Flint and George Friend once again.

Flint has missed the last two games with a hamstring injury while Friend, who has a similar but less serious problem, sat out last Saturday’s 2-0 win over QPR after limping out of the previous weekend’s victory at Blackburn.

Pulis otherwise has no fresh selection problems, although defender Ryan Shotton (knee) continues to be nursed through a busy run of games.

In addition, midfielder Lewis Wing is being carefully managed after complaining of discomfort in his groin in recent weeks.