Wigan Athletic's difficult start to the 2026-27 campaign was compounded this week by a heavy home defeat and the departure of a former player. The Latics sit 24th in League One with just three points from five games, having scored five goals and conceded eleven.
How did the players perform against Stockport?
Paul Kendrick of Wigan Today delivered his player ratings following the 4-0 loss to Stockport County at the Brick Community Stadium. He described the day as "desperately disappointing" for Shaun Maloney's side, who were outplayed by their visitors. Kendrick's analysis highlighted a team struggling for confidence and energy across the pitch.
Jensen Weir, deployed in a number ten role, was given a rating of six. Kendrick noted the versatile player "put himself about with his usual desire and determination" but ultimately did not look at home in the advanced position. The player ended the match playing at centre-back, a switch that showed a difficult afternoon for the team. You can view the full squad assessment on our squad page.
Where did Matt Smith move after leaving Wigan?
Midfielder Matt Smith has joined Stevenage on a free transfer, the BBC reported this week. The 25-year-old was available after his contract with Wigan Athletic expired this summer. Smith made 159 League One appearances during his career, which also included spells at Doncaster Rovers, Charlton Athletic, and Swindon Town.
A product of Arsenal's academy, Smith never made a senior appearance for the Gunners before start his career in the Football League. His departure from the DW Stadium was confirmed earlier in the summer, and he has now found a new club ahead of the September transfer window. Stevenage announced the signing but did not disclose the length of the contract.
What is the context of Wigan's league position?
The defeat to Stockport leaves Wigan Athletic in a precarious early-season position. With a record of one win and four losses, they are nine points behind early leaders Sheffield Wednesday. Their goal difference of minus six reflects the defensive issues that were evident in the heavy loss.
This poor form sets up a critical next fixture against the league leaders. Wigan travel to face Sheffield Wednesday on September 12th, a match that presents a formidable challenge but also an opportunity to arrest their slide. The full schedule of upcoming matches is available on our fixtures page.
What comes next for Shaun Maloney's team?
Attention now turns immediately to the trip to face the table-toppers. Manager Shaun Maloney will need to find solutions quickly to address a run of form that has seen his team lose three of their last four matches. The scale of the task is clear in the standings, which show a significant gap to the teams at the top.
Improving both defensive solidity and attacking potency will be the immediate focus on the training ground. The team's next chance to put points on the board comes away at Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, September 12th.
