Premier League preview: Wigan v Manchester United

Premier League leaders Manchester United will look to continue their winning ways when they travel to Wigan Athletic on Tuesday.

United are seven points clear of defending champions Manchester City and unbeaten in eight matches since a shock 1-0 loss to Norwich City in November.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s men ended 2012 on a high with a 2-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion on Saturday in which Robin van Persie netted his 17th goal in all competitions since moving to Old Trafford in August.

“We’re in a good position. We’re halfway there,” Ferguson said.

But Ferguson knows there is plenty to work to be done in 2013 after his side were pipped for the title last season.

Back then United led fierce rivals City by eight points with six matches to go before Roberto Mancini’s charges stormed home to clinch the crown on a dramatic final day.

“It’s important, though, that we do not sit looking at the league table, admiring our position, positive though it is, because we would soon get a rude awakening,” Ferguson said.

“Congratulating ourselves on our Premier League lead doesn’t mean a thing to me. It’s winning the next game that counts.”

Wigan climbed to 16th place following a 3-0 victory at Aston Villa at the weekend and could move further away from the relegation zone with one of the upsets of the season on New Year’s Day.

Roberto Martinez’s side stunned United 1-0 at home last season but have claimed just two wins from 10 attempts at the DW Stadium this campaign.

Despite their poor record at home, Martinez believes Wigan can defy the odds on the back of their win at Villa Park.

“We were dominant in both boxes which is what has been missing in recent games and we’ll aim to take that into Tuesday’s game against Manchester United,” he said.