Wigan boss Roberto Martinez eyeing Europa League spot

It’s a ridiculed tournament that is ravaging British clubs, yet Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has insisted: Bring on the Europa League.

Wigan pursue their dream of Continental crusades today against a Fulham side licking the wounds from their latest ordeal on foreign soil.

Fulham, reduced to nine men in a torrid defeat away to Roma, have also paid for their Europa League campaign with an erratic start to their domestic season.

But Martinez insists the greater demands on playing resources and the potentially catastrophic consequences are worth the risk.

Wigan’s Spanish boss said: “You need to have an aim and our aim is to get into Europe. That shows you are progressing and we need to fight for that.

“We are not happy with just trying to survive in the Premier League.

“It brings different demands and we probably need a bigger squad and that’s the challenge.

“I don’t see it as a poisoned chalice. The demands are there, but you can show you have the mentality to be a winner, the arrogance to compete against anyone, and that’s going to give you more points over a season.

“We have to show we have ambition and believe we will be good enough to get into Europe.”

Despite Fulham’s setbacks at home and abroad, Martinez contends Roy Hodgson and his men provide inspiration for the Premier League’s more modest clubs.

Martinez said: "Fulham are a great example.

“Many expected them to get relegated the season before last, but after their great escape they’ve gone from strength to strength.

“We want to play Roma and Europe’s top teams.

“They have had injuries this season, but some of their performances, against Manchester City and Liverpool, showed that belief you get when you play in Europe.”

Martinez hopes to improve his squad by developing the players he has and adding “creative” signings in the January window.

He also maintains he has no concerns over the future of versatile Austrian Paul Scharner.

“He’ll have to make a decision at the end of the season, but there’s not going to be a conflict. If we keep him I’ll be delighted.”