MCMANAMAN RETURNS TO WIGAN
WINGER CALLUM DEPARTS SUNDERLAND AFTER A SINGLE SEASON TO REJOIN HIS FORMER CLUB
Callum McManaman says he is ‘buzzing’ after sealing a return to Wigan Athletic, but has backed Sunderland to have a ‘really good season’.
The 27-year-old, who had one year left on his Sunderland deal, has rejoined the club where he made a major impression in the early stages of his career, helping the Latics lift the FA Cup in 2013 with a man-ofthe-match Wembley display.
McManaman, who made 26 appearances for the Black Cats last season, scoring once, said of his Wigan move: “It’s great to be back.
“All of the lads and the gaffer seem spot on.
“I saw a few bits on Twitter from the fans and it seems like everyone is happy. I’m buzzing to be a Latics player again.
“I didn’t want to leave in the first place to be honest, so I’m made up to be home and to get going again.
“I’ve been following games for the last few years, especially last season and the gaffer’s style definitely suits me.
“When I spoke to him he’s been great and all of the lads speak very highly of him.
“I’ve had some great times at this club and I’m only still 27 years old, so I can’t see why I can’t have more good times here. I want to go one better.
“I don’t think I realised until I left just how good my first time at the club was, the grass isn’t always greener.”
“I know a lot of the lads here, mostly from other clubs, so settling in will be fine.
“I know Max (Power) really well, he’s a good lad and I’ve known him for a while.
“I haven’t played with him before, so I’m looking forward to doing well on the pitch together.”
Ex-Sunderland teammate James Vaughan is also on board at Wigan, while former Black Cat Ross Wallace, who played alongside McManaman at Sheffield Wednesday, is on trial at the Latics.
McManaman, who has penned an initial 12-month contract with the Championship newcomers, also had high praise for new Sunderland manager Jack Ross, saying: “The gaffer there is brilliant and I think they’ll do really well this season.”
Sunderland have begun the search for a replacement and are expected to add another winger to their squad before the window shuts.
Meanwhile, Wigan boss Paul Cook said: “Callum’s connection with this club and our fans is there for all to see. “Our task is to get him ready and doing what he does best at the DW Stadium.
“I have seen Callum from afar and I am excited about what he can produce.
“This is a good environment for him to come into because he knows a lot of the players and staff well, which should help him settle in straight away.”