Management's message for MK Dons
Caretaker managers Tony Philliskirk and Paul Gerrard (pictured) are asking fans to be patient in tomorrow's home npower League One match against Milton Keynes Dons.Philliskirk believes Latics' players will also have to display that quality on the field.
He explained: "I have telephoned a couple of managers whose teams have recently played MK Dons and they say they are the best football team in the division.
"They pass the ball for fun and have some good players as Karl Robinson has a fantastic budget to work with so has been able to attract the best players.
"I will be amazed if there are spells in the game when they are not the dominant team so ask fans to be patient as we will also have to be on the pitch."
Philliskirk added his challenge is to devise a plan to nullify the threat they pose and also one which involves causing them problems at the opposite end of the pitch.
He pointed out supporters can be their extra man in the battle to pull clear of the relegation places.
Philliskirk said: "It is amazing when you are on the pitch to hear support rather than moans and groans. That is not me having a go, but fact.
"We need the backing of fans more than ever at this time."
That was reinforced by Gerrard who explained: "The most important thing for fans is to get behind the team.
"I understand it is difficult at this time and frustrating for the fans, but they can make the difference.
"Get behind the players if things are not going well on the pitch and it might turn things round."
Philliskirk said: "It is amazing when you are on the pitch to hear support rather than moans and groans. That is not me having a go, but fact.
"We need the backing of fans more than ever at this time."
That was reinforced by Gerrard who explained: "The most important thing for fans is to get behind the team.
"I understand it is difficult at this time and frustrating for the fans, but they can make the difference.
"Get behind the players if things are not going well on the pitch and it might turn things round."