Wigan coach confident for Ghana keeper Kingson

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has no fears over Richard Kingson's World Cup hopes, despite admitting the Latics goalkeeper is demanding to play.

 
Kingson is currently Ghana's number one and destined to figure in next year's finals in South Africa, where his country face Germany, Australia and Serbia in the group stages.

The 31-year-old, though, has not played a first-team game for the Latics since the end of last season.

Yet Martinez does not see that as a problem as he said: "Every player will always have their individual needs, and that's important.

"The World Cup is one of those unique events in any player's career, and you always need to take that into consideration.

"The good thing about Richard is he is undoubtedly the number one for Ghana, unlike other national teams where they've two or three options.

"They've huge confidence in Richard who has great status and the number one position is his.

"Obviously, Richard hasn't been playing too much which can be frustrating, and sometimes we need to address those situations.

"But looking at his day-to-day work, he has been a real good pro, and when you're like that you get your rewards and what you deserve.

"Richard is calm because he is number one for Ghana, and whatever happens he'll still be number one for Ghana, which is an advantage.

"But I look at everybody's situation in every window because we need to keep everyone happy and enjoying their football. That's a priority."

Kingson may get his chance tomorrow at Stoke as Chris Kirkland has a back injury and first-choice deputy Mike Pollitt's three matches this season have seen him concede nine goals.

Asked if Kingson had come knocking wondering when he would get his chance, Martinez replied: "Yes, but everyone is frustrated when they don't play.

"What's important is understanding the next move, and that is working hard in training and setting your own standards, and Richard has been doing that all season.

"It's important for him he has taken the international games as something to give him extra energy, and he has come back strong.

"His standards on a daily basis have been fantastic, and when you've that, I'll always help my players to enjoy their football."