Manager transforms youngster's career
David Mellor has credited new-manager Lee Johnson for helping to transform his career with Latics.The 19-year-old, who has just signed a new 12-month contract, admitted he had been in the cold during the latter days of the previous management regime.
Mellor, who was raised in Shaw, said: "I was not getting a sniff but the new manager has shown faith in my ability and given my career a massive boost.
"He has told me what I need to work on and I have got my rewards."
Mellor added that he has been working hard on his fitness explaining he lost six kilos in the three weeks leading up to his first-team recall in early April.
He continued: "The manager told me I needed to get fitter in terms of working on my fitness and also changing my diet.
"The manager came to see me and my girlfriend and I have changed by diet completely.
"I have also been putting in extra work in training and feel a lot better in terms of getting round the pitch. And I am sure that is why I am playing better."
Mellor has made most of his 31 first-team appearances for Latics at left back since making his debut in August 2011, but is delighted that Johnson is playing him in his preferred position in the centre of midfield.
And he hopes to continue where he left off for the start of the 2013/14 season.
Mellor, like all the players, has been given a fitness programme to undertake during the close season.
He continued: "The programme involves fitness work and exercises.
"The aim is to report back fitter and stronger and I cannot wait for the new season. Hopefully it will be a good one for both myself and and team."
There is a big event in the Mellor household with Emma this weekend due to give birth to their first child.