Di Santo earns Martinez praise

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez praised young striker Franco Di Santo after the Argentine’s brace helped his side to a 2-0 win over QPR.

The 22-year-old was instrumental in securing Wigan’s first win of the new season, and Martinez said he has no doubt the youngster will stay grounded despite the breathtaking performance.

“Franco came here at a very young age and has had a few experiences but he works hard and understand the game and today is his reward,” Martinez said.

“Franco has always been influential for the team but for a striker there is nothing better than hitting the back of the net. Technically his display was superb.”

“Franco knows he must work very hard to fulfil his potential. He has a long way to go but he has got absolutely everything. It was great to see him smiling and celebrating.”

“I am very pleased with the manner in which we approached the game. It’s our third game against a newly promoted side and that is always difficult.”

Martinez also revealed he would not be selling Colombian international Hugo Rodallega before the transfer window closes on Wednesday, insisting he will keep his squad together.

“You are not going to lose players at this stage of the season that you cannot replace,” he said.

“When you lose big players it has to be early in the window. We would never stop players going into a different moment of their careers, but it has to be the right valuation at the right time.”

“The most important thing is Wigan Athletic and at the moment I don’t think it is right to lose any players.”

QPR boss Neil Warnock was disappointed to come away from DW Stadium empty handed, and suggested that luck played a major role in Wigan’s win.

“I’m just so pleased with the effort they put in. All you can ask is for the lads to do their best,” Warnock said.

“I think if we had scored the first goal we would have won the game. We hit the bar and post three times.”

“I think if you were Di Santo you would be filling your lottery tickets in tonight. Both shots were going miles wide, with the second one worse than the first.”