Wigan Athletic boss Gary Caldwell has expressed his admiration for trialist Nico Lawrence, a 22-year-old centre-back who started for the Latics in their 3-1 pre-season defeat to Port Vale at the Brick Community Stadium. Caldwell revealed that Lawrence is a player he has been monitoring for some time, having previously looked at him during his spell as Exeter City manager.
What happened?
Lawrence, who spent three years with Southampton and gained senior experience during loan spells at Torquay United, Colchester United, and MK Dons, before later featuring for York City and Farnborough, impressed in his debut for Wigan Athletic. He started for the Latics in their opening summer friendly and will continue to be assessed by Caldwell's side.
Why it matters for Wigan Athletic
Caldwell's comments suggest that Lawrence is a player who could potentially strengthen Wigan Athletic's squad ahead of the new League One campaign. The Latics are currently 16th in League One, with 56 points from 46 games, and are 47 points behind leaders Lincoln.
What comes next?
Wigan Athletic will continue to assess Lawrence's performance and consider his potential signing. Meanwhile, the Latics will also be keeping a close eye on young midfielder Tobias Brenan, who is reportedly attracting interest from League One and League Two clubs. Caldwell dismissed recent speculation surrounding Brenan's future, stating that the club has had 'nothing' to do with the transfer speculation.
In addition to Lawrence and Brenan, Wigan Athletic's young players also impressed in the pre-season friendly against Port Vale. Academy graduate Harrison Rimmer scored the Latics' only goal of the afternoon, while K'Marni Miller and Chris Sze also caught the eye with encouraging displays. Caldwell praised the young players, stating that they have an opportunity to show what they can do and stake their claim for first-team involvement.
Next up for Wigan Athletic is a pre-season friendly against AFC Fylde at Mill Farm on Saturday afternoon (3pm) as Caldwell continues shaping his squad ahead of the new League One campaign.
