Wigan Athletic's manager Gary Caldwell has explained the thinking behind the team's tweaking of tactics and personnel for Saturday's home defeat to Leyton Orient. The reshuffle saw Jensen Weir move from the engine room to the right-hand side, with Connor Barrett dropping to the bench despite providing two assists in the midweek Vertu Trophy win over Aston Villa Under-21s.
What happened?
The changes also saw centre-back Morgan Fox left out of the matchday squad, with Caldwell again opting to go into the game without a goalkeeper on the bench.
Why it matters for Wigan Athletic
When asked about Fox's absence, Caldwell replied: "No injury, just tactical...no Jeremiah (Chilokoa-Mullen), no Cal Mac, no Charlie Gray...that's what a squad's for."
What comes next?
The switch was referenced by Orient boss Richie Wellens after the game, with the visitors having to twice change their own shape to counter it. Wigan Athletic are currently 47 points behind leaders Lincoln in the League One title race, having finished 16th in the final 2025 table with 56 points, and will look to improve their standing with their next match.
