Manager on injury free pre-season
Paul Dickov believes it is no accident that Latics' players have not picked up any serious injuries during their entire pre-season build up.Latics' manager put that down to the hard work of his players - even before they reported back at the start of July.
He explained: "Usually in pre-season you pick up a lot of knocks and niggles such as tight hamstrings.
"The players were each given a programme to follow during their break and that is why they hit the ground running.
"Everybody returned in good shape so we didn't have to work as much in the early part on getting them fit.
"We have done fitness checks compared to last season and the players' have blown away those results."
Dickov added the fact it has been an injury free pre-season has been a massive lift.
He continued: "We have had good results and performances, but the biggest plus is that everyone is fighting fit.
"There is no problem with the fitness of the players which is great for them because there is no better feeling going into games knowing you are fit and strong."