Defender Brian Wilson is flourishing in the central defensive position after almost seeing his time at Oldham Athletic end over the summer.
Under the previous manager Darren Kelly, Wilson was allowed to train with League Two side Notts County during pre-season.
However, in a turn of events, Wilson got his head down and worked hard to get back in the team.
Now the defender is thriving under new manager David Dunn and he is glad his hard work and determination has paid off.
He said: "Football is like that sometimes and you have to get on with it. I’ve come back, worked hard and the manager has given me the chance and I’d like to think I’ve taken it.
The 32-year-old has struck up a good understanding with partner James Wilson. “I’ve known James for many of years, especially from Bristol City,” he admitted.
“He is a quick and strong defender and we have a good understanding as a partnership and it’s going reasonably well.”
The pair are expected to be in tonight’s starting 11 for the game with Southend United, a game which will be tough according to Wilson.
“They have been grinding out some decent results and I know four or five of their players who was at Colchester with me,” he said.
"It will be a tough game but one that we can win and need to win going into the big week against Crewe and Southend.
"It’s a long trip for them but it’s down to us. As long as we prepare right and play to the ability we know we can then we will win the game.
“If we win tonight, we can lead that on into Crewe and hopefully come out with nine points out of a possible 12."
Watch the full interview on Latics PlayerHD.