Latics host Exeter City tonight at Boundary Park in a Sky Bet League Two fixture and Head Coach Laurent Banide gave his thoughts ahead of the game.
Latics suffered a 3-0 defeat away against Bradford City at the weekend and the Head Coach wants his side to improve against Exeter City.
“We are wanting a reaction, it’s been a short time for preparation but we have to play better for sure. It’s important to have a reaction and improve.”
Banide is aware of the test that Exeter will bring but wants to focus on his own side ahead of the game.
“It’s important to focus on ourselves because we have a few players injured and we need to make changes.
“We have seen the opponents and they’re a good team but at the moment we must focus on how we play and it hasn’t been enough and we must continue and try to do better.”
The 51-year-old states that his team doesn’t have much time to fix problems but wants to put things right as soon as possible.
“We don’t have time to work, every day we are focused on the next game and it’s difficult tactical problems and we need time to work.
“Every time we’ve got our heads underwater and it’s difficult but it’s football and it’s the same for everybody. Step by step we try our best.”
Christopher Missilou was taken off before half-time against Bradford City and may be unavailable tonight alongside captain Mohamed Maouche who also picked up a knock.
“He’s injured and Maouche is the same. We can’t take a risk with the players because we can’t lose players for six weeks and it’s important that we try and protect them.
“We must find a solution very fast and create something. It’s why we don’t have much time but it’s football.”
David Wheater is set to make a return to the starting XI after being injured and Banide believes the defender has a lot to offer.
“David has come back and it’s important for the team and important for the defence.
“We need to have a player that gives confidence and it’s good news and we hope we can start some good things with him.”