Caldwell hails Maloney impact

Shaun Maloney: Impressed in recent weeks for Wigan after winning his place in the side

Wigan skipper Gary Caldwell has hailed the recent impact of Shaun Maloney and believes he could be the difference to them staying up.

Maloney has impressed in the last month after establishing himself in Roberto Martinez's starting XI.

The former Celtic man has endured a frustrating time at the DW Stadium since arriving last summer with injuries limiting his first-team opportunities.

However, Maloney is back to fitness and Caldwell expects his fellow Scot to play a key role in Wigan's fight for survival.

Outstanding

"Shaun has been outstanding since he came to Wigan but for one reason or another hasn't managed to get a regular starting place," Caldwell told the Daily Record.

"But he's been outstanding in training and has been fit which is key.

"The wee man trained every day so when he got his chance he was flying and ready to take it. That's been one of the big turning points in our season.

"Shaun's helped with performances and results - it's been like signing a new player.

"Shaun's helped with performances and results - it's been like signing a new player. "
Gary Caldwell on Shaun Maloney Quotes of the week

"It's not just Shaun's form. He has spurred on Franco di Santo and Victor Moses because they both seem a lot livelier with him next to them.

"Hopefully he can give us that spark we'll need in a difficult run-in to help us stay in the Premiership."

Caldwell is also tipping Maloney to win his place back in the Scotland squad with the forward not having played for his country for nearly two years.

"Shaun is desperate to play for his country," added Caldwell. "On his day he's one of the best attacking players we have - he's committed and really wants to get back in the set-up as soon as he can."