He's close to Messi, Maradona - Wigan boss praises Manchester City stay Sergio Aguero
Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez reckons new Manchester City signing Sergio Aguero is "as close to Maradona and Messi as your will see".
The Blues’ immense wealth and increased stature was immediately recognised by Martinez as a fast track to the dizzy heights of success.
And his sentiments are echoed by Latics chairman Dave Whelan.
Wigan travel to Eastlands on Saturday and Martinez is wary of the menace posed by City’s new Argentine superstar Sergio Aguero.
Martinez has seen Aguero excel for Atletico Madrid and three goals in his first three matches for City sums up the task facing Wigan.
Aguero's name has dominated Wigan's preparations ahead of the Etihad clash.
Explosive
“He really is the complete player and he’s probably as close to Maradona and Messi as you will see,” said Martinez.
“Aguero has the ability to play between lines and his winning mentality has allowed him to fit into the Premier League with no problems.
“He is explosive over the first five yards and defenders in this country will have a real shock when they see just how quick he is.
“Due to his style, City can play on the counter away from home and then be different at home - it really is a dangerous combination.”
Latics will head for Manchester boosted by their first win of the season by QPR.
But they will be without both Antolin Alcaraz and Steve Gohouri.
Wigan felt they did enough to earn a point in last year's clash.
They matched City in many areas but lost out to a single goal.
Chairman Dave Whelan recalled: “We played very well there as we did on a number of occasions last year and didn't have anything to show for it.
“You have to make your own luck in this game at times. It's so competitive.”
