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Martinez hails players

Image: Roberto Martinez: Full of praise for players

Roberto Martinez has played down his own influence on Wigan's outstanding run of form.

Wigan boss say he is not responsible for fine form

Roberto Martinez has played down his own influence on Wigan's outstanding run of form. The Latics have battled back from being bottom in March by winning five from their last seven matches. Now they tackle relegation rivals Blackburn knowing that a point would see them virtually safe in the Premier League for another season, whilst also relegating Rovers. And whilst many have been lauding Martinez's style of play and tactical nous, the Spaniard insists the players should be receiving the plaudits. "Systems don't win games, players do," he said. "Systems are ways to have players on the pitch, but it is the players and their moment of form that allows you to win games." Blackburn need to win to avoid the drop themselves - anything other than three points will see them down - but there is no suggestion from Martinez that he will be eliminating the risks and playing for a point. "We can't do that, we're not that type of team," he said. "We're a team that needs to get on the ball and control games ourselves. We need to be brave in attack and defend with good intensity."

Revival

Wigan's recent revival has seen them pick up almost unbelievable wins over the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle, while they were unfortunate to come away from Chelsea empty-handed. And, according to Martinez, tackling the challenge head on has been the key. "Since the transfer window closed we have been very consistent," he added. "You could point to a couple of performances where we haven't been ourselves, but every other performance we have. "We have played with bravery, been physically very strong and have enjoyed our football. "That is a reflection of the hard work of the players on the training ground and that pleases me more than anything. "The football club reacted to adversity."

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