Kone hails Martinez philosophy

Wigan Athletic’s new signing Arouna Kone says the words of manager Roberto Martinez convinced him to move to the English Premier League.

Kone, who scored 15 goals in 34 league appearances for Levante last season, joined Wigan on Tuesday for a reported fee of around 2.7 million pounds.

“I’m very happy to be here and I’m doubly happy because I know how hard the manager has had to fight to get me here,” Kone told Wigan’s official website.

“I’m impatient to get started with my new club. It’s a great challenge for me.

“Roberto has told me about the philosophy of the club, how it’s a family club.

“He is a young manager who is trying to build something special here.

“He told me how he likes his teams to play on the floor which is a style that I’m used to in Spain and these were words which really persuaded me to join.

“The Premier League is the number one league in the world and I’ve watched it for a long time and as a result I do know a little bit about the club and I would love to be able to help us do well in this league.”

Wigan open their Premier League campaign at home to Chelsea on Saturday and Kone is hopeful of featuring against the European champions.

“There’s a chance, but it’s up to the manager of course,” he said.

“But I’m ready having done all of my pre-season with Levante. I feel great and I would love to be able to take part in such a big game.

“I’m gonna give my all every time I put the shirt on this season and I’m sure we can make progress in the league.”