Defender George Edmundson says the team are treating the Carabao Cup tie with Derby County as if it was any other game.
Derby have brought in a number of new signings and Edmundson is relishing the opportunity to test himself against a top Championship opposition.
“It'll be a tough game, but these are games you want to play in so I'm looking forward to it.” He said.
“Because it's a cup game they'll probably change it up a bit, but you just prepare like any other game, set pieces, shape on and off the ball so it's the same really.”
Edmundson has been ever-present in the team since he was recalled from loan due to defensive injuries last season and he is loving the opportunity he’s getting week in week out.
“Obviously I don’t want anyone to get injured but if it's given me a chance to play I hope I can take it.” He commented.
“The back five is very young, so it's given me, Sam [Graham] and Tom [Hamer] a lot of experience and hopefully we can just keep on improving.”
Despite the average age of the back line being 20-years-old, Edmundson believes that they are good enough to be in the team.
“We look at it as we are young but we're good enough to play, we wouldn't be footballers if we didn't think you were good enough, you've got to back yourself.
“We're all just trying to step up to the challenge and hopefully we can show that in the next couple of games.”
Latics take on Derby County tonight (7:45pm) in the first round of the Carabao Cup.
Supporters are reminded that they can pay on the turnstile for no extra price increase this evening.