Strange as though it may seem, Latics manager Paul Dickov maintains it won't be his decision as and when he returns to action.

Dickov says it will be taken by his staff who are more well equipped to judge whether he is ready to play.

The Latics manager added that the question of him playing again - he made two brief substitute appearances pre-season - has again be raised if only as a substitute.

Dickov said: "When I was a player, I need to train every day of the week to be ready for Saturday.

"I am not fit enough because, due to the job I am doing, I am not able to train every day.

"When I took the job, I said I would leave that decision to my staff. I will have a chat with them as it is not something I can make myself.

"They will know what I am like in training and if I am ready to play."

Dickov does not believe it will make his job harder combining playing and management.

He continued: "One of the benefits I have found when I train is that I can get my points across easier than being on the sidelines.

"When I can go out and do what I am physically asking them to do, it is even better."