Nick Powell

The new season is finally upon us, but Latics are still looking to bring in more players, despite heavy preseason recruitment.

Gary Caldwell has been very busy in the transfer market and has already brought in seven new players – Stephen Warnock, Alex Gilbey, Dan Burn, Kyle Knoyle, Nick Powell, Adam Bogdan and Jake Buxton – but more are on the way.

Last season was one of almost continuous change as Caldwell brought in around 40 players either permanently or on loan and the trend doesn’t look to be abating as the manager is always looking to improve his squad.

Some might say that this is too much change, but I think it is a good thing as it keeps the players on their toes when they are not guaranteed a place in the starting line-up.

Caldwell and his recruitment team are constantly on the look out for a better quality of player. The manager knows that new blood is needed as Latics will be stepping up a level in the Championship. Plenty of new faces can give the team an extra boost at the start of a new campaign.

At the time of writing Latics were looking to bring in another striker, midfielder and defender.

They have been linked with a number of potential targets including former Everton midfielder Leon Osman, Sheffield United defender John Brayford, Millwall striker Lee Gregory and Everton striker Conor McAleny.

Latics’ revolving door policy will mean that several players will also be leaving the club or going out on-loan.

Goalkeeper Lee Nicholls has recently signed for MK Dons, forward Samni Odelusi has gone on loan to Rochdale and full-back Andrew Taylor and striker Craig Davies could soon be on the move.

Sam Morsy and Emyr Huws have been linked with moves away from the DW stadium, but Caldwell has said it will only happen if it’s a deal which suits Latics.

Amongst all the comings and goings it was great to see midfielder Max Power sign an extended contract at Latics.

Max was a relatively unknown quantity when he signed from Tranmere Rovers at the beginning of last season but he’s proved to be an inspired acquisition and he should make a big impact in the Championship.

I’m expecting Latics to get off to a good start at Ashton Gate tomorrow, but if things don’t go to plan please don’t write off our season after just one game.

Just remember what happened last year, we lost to Coventry in the first game, but went on to win the League One title convincingly.

This article was first published in the 12th Man column for the Wigan Evening Post on Friday 5th August 2016.