Callum McManaman expressed that his significant moment of wearing the captain’s armband for Wigan Athletic was overshadowed by the team’s performance and result against League Two side Morecambe.
With club captain Jason Kerr absent, McManaman led the team out for the Bristol Street Motors Trophy match.
The 33-year-old played well and was Latics’ standout performer at the Brick Community Stadium, but a poor collective display allowed Morecambe—who were at the bottom of League Two without a goal in their first five games—to win 2-1.
Reflecting on the night, McManaman was in no mood for personal accolades. “It should be a proud moment, but because we lost, it’s not, to be honest. I’m not really bothered; it’s all about the result,” he said. “Losing to a League Two team is unacceptable for this club.
We need to show more character on the pitch, especially when we concede first. It’s not good enough; we’ve had words in the dressing room, and we need to step up.”
Despite eight changes from the previous league defeat to Birmingham, including several young players, McManaman refused to use that as an excuse.
The match was encapsulated by Morecambe’s winning goal midway through the second half, with Toby Sibbick slipping in his own box shortly after Joe Hugill had equalized from the penalty spot.
“It doesn’t matter how old you are—old or young—you’ve got to show up, no excuses,” McManaman said. “The second goal was unfortunate; anyone can slip. But did we show enough fight to score again? I don’t think so. This can’t continue.
Training has been good since the Reading game, but tonight was another poor performance. Everything had been going well, and then this happens. It’s not acceptable for this club, and we need to fix it. Work hard, go again—simple as that.”
Wigan have an extended break before their next league match due to the international schedule, with their next fixture at Bristol Rovers on Saturday, September 14.
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